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Thursday & Friday 22nd & 23rd February from 10am to 5pm
St Mary’s Church, TotnesFriday & Saturday 2nd & 3rd March from 10am to 5pm
The Mansion, TotnesHERITAGE FOR LIFE Consultation ExhibitionsSt Mary’s Church, a Grade 1 Listed building, is in urgent need of repair and renovation. The church is on the “Heritage at Risk” register and as such its future is under threat.The church and its community have drawn up proposals to not only address the urgent repairs required but have a scheme to provide a much need community facility for performing arts as well as continuing as a place of worship.
There are also proposals for improving and making better use of the surrounds to St Mary’s, including the possibility of a new town square.The public consultation exhibition is being held at St Mary’s Church on 22/23 March and 2/3 March at The Mansion. Please come along and make your views known.John Birch
• READ MORE about the background and context for the consultations in a special page on St Mary’s and St John’s website, under the Projects menu

PHOTOGRAPHS of St Mary’s Church, Totnes

A selection of preview photographs of the exterior of St Mary’s Church.
• these photographs are, or will be, available in full resolution in the Friends of St Mary’s members galleries

LOTS OF UPDATES this time for things to know and things to do. The really BIG news at the moment is the next wave of consultation exhibitions, for ideas and plans for St Mary’s, taking place later this month at St Mary’s Church and also, in early March, at The Mansion – see below. Please help spread the word – we hope as many as possible will come along, to give their views and offer any ideas of their own.LENT will be beginning soon, and there are courses, events and services to read about below.
After the usual quiet start to the year, the entertainments side of things is getting very prolific and very eclectic too. We’ve room in this blog only for February and March listings, but to find out what’s happening in April head over to the Events page.
Don’t forget to scroll down to the Community News section – there are quite a few interesting, inspiring and informative new items on there, including a Help for Hard Times compilation of all sorts of really useful information from Caring Town Information Exchange.
Many thanks as always to everyone who sent in words and pictures.
PS If you are getting a deja vu feeling, it’s because we’ve repeated a few important things from our last big News blog, in case some people missed them amidst all the hustle and bustle around Christmas and the New Year.

You may remember that in June last year the St Mary’s Partnership held its first public consultation events. Prior to that, St Mary’s with Bridgetown Parochial Church Council had embarked on a major scheme to restore the magnificent ‘At Risk’ fabric of St Mary’s church, and to reorder the interior of the building so that it is more suited to modern community use. At the same time, Totnes Trust, which is dedicated to preserving heritage buildings and improving public spaces, had embarked on a project to make the area around the Church one of the most attractive and unique heritage areas of any town in the UK.

Our two organisations had come together in the St Mary’s Partnership, and shortly afterwards were joined by the Town Council, which is responsible for the upkeep of the churchyard, and has a strong interest in one of our aims: to create better public access to the Guildhall.

the first consultation event, June 2017

The first consultation was very well received. Consequently we were able to commission sketch designs from professional designers, and these have now reached the stage where we can hold a second public consultation to finalise the proposals.

It has become evident that these projects, focusing on the St Mary’s Precinct, have so much in common that they should be master-planned under a single banner, which we have named the St Mary’s ‘Heritage for Life’ plan. This will coordinate the work, assist with the case for obtaining finance, and potentially provide a model for heritage improvement in other parts of the town.

The second consultation exhibitions will be held 10am to 5pm at St Mary’s Church on 22nd to 23rd February, and at the Mansion on 2nd to 3rd March. Our project comes from the community, is for the community, and depends on its approval to move ahead. So we would be very grateful if you could publicise these events and encourage people to attend and make their views known.

One element of the masterplan involves creating a new ‘Place to Remember’, with better siting of the War Memorial, and space to record the names of those killed in recent wars. This is a sensitive matter, and we wished to hold an early consultation with relatives of the Fallen. The Mayor of Totnes kindly hosted this special advance event in the Guildhall at 2.30pm on 30th January.

We look forward to extensive participation in shaping the final development of these exciting proposals. Best wishes,Louis Victory (Totnes Trust) and John Birch (Parochial Church Council)

NEW: Friday 2nd March at 2pm
St John’s Church, BridgetownWOMEN’S WORLD DAY OF PRAYER (INTERNATIONAL AND INTERDENOMINATIONAL)Special Service: All God’s Creation is Very Good!The interdenominational movement of the Women’s World Day of Prayer invites everyone to attend one of over 5,000 services being held on Friday 2nd March with the title All God’s Creation is Very Good! We will join an estimated 3 million people around the world that day in a service which has been written this year by the women of Suriname in South America.
Starting in Samoa as the sun rises, and ending as the sun sets off the coast of American Samoa, the service will have been translated into more than 95 languages and 1000 dialects as we are reminded that we have responsibilities in caring for this wonderful world we live in. With its vast rainforest and wealth of resources,
Suriname asks us to pray for conservation and the protection of wildlife, through an awareness of pollution, misuse and abuse, as well as for the situation in Suriname and concerns for the future. This is not simply a day of prayer for women, but for everyone who cares about our world and those who live in it.

UPCOMING EVENTS in February & March

Wednesdays throughout February
10am to 1pm
St John’s Church, BridgetownCOMMUNITY CAFÉA place of friendship and fellowship to the community.
The café runs on a pay what you feel basis.

Saturday 17th February from 10.30am to 4pmSt Mary & St George RC ChurchWELCOMING THE STRANGER
The day will look the plight of refugees from a global perspective and discussions about our practical response at a local level. There will be presentations from a Christian / CAFOD perspective and from the perspective of the Charities Beyond Borders, Totnes and Open Hearts, Open Borders.
• facebook event page

NEW: Tuesday 20th February from 12pm to 2pmSt Mary and St George Catholic Church HallLENT LUNCHES 2018 – DONATIONS FOR CHRISTIAN AID AND CAFOD
are being held for five Tuesdays during Lent (nearest parking: Budgens carpark)
• please support St Mary’s Parish and Priory Church Team on Tuesday 20th February be- tween12pm and 2pm
• offering a choice of 3 homemade soups with bread and butter.

Thursday / Friday 22nd to 23rd February 10am to 5pm
St Mary’s Church, TotnesFriday / Saturday 2nd to 3rd March 10am to 5pm
The Mansion, TotnesHERITAGE FOR LIFEConsultation Exhibitions
Have your say about designs for a St Mary’s Heritage Area in Totnes with a church building improved for community use in the 21st century.
• read more about this here and in other pages under the Projects menu
• or scroll up for fuller details

NEW: Saturday 10th March from 10am to 4pm
at Dartington Church & Dartington Church HallFOLLOW MEA Lent Quiet Day
Led by Reverend Jane Frost, Team Curate & Richard Frost, Team Reader, Totnes Team Ministry. During this period of Lent, we reflect on how God called different people in both the Old Testament and New Testament to follow him, and we consider our response to that same call.
• booking required by email or call 01803 865196
• a small donation will be requested to cover costs
• download a poster

Saturday 10th March at 7.30pm
St Mary’s Church, TotnesTotnes Early Music Society presentsPASSAMEZZOMusic of the RestorationAn evening of music, words and song from Restoration England to partner the lecture (on Thursday 8th March at the Seven Stars Hotel, Totnes) by historian Ian Mortimer.
After years of civil war and an Interregnum, Charles II has ascended the throne…
Accounts of the period come from Pepys, Evelyn and anonymous ballads describing momentous events, including the Great Fire of 1666 and Frost Fair in 1683. With theatre songs, tavern rounds, dance music and solos for the viol and cittern, and music by Wilson, Lawes, Locke and Purcell, plus pieces from Playford.Passamezzo gave us a hugely enjoyable concert in 2012, and we are delighted to welcome them back.• tickets for non-members £14 (under 18s £5) available in advance from the Dartington Box Office01803 847070 (daily from 12.30pm to 7pm) or online or on the door
• TEMS website

NEW: Saturday 10th March at 7.30pmCommunity Space
at St John’s Church, LittlehempstonREMEMBERED FIELDS
A programme of poetry, prose and music written during the First World WarBob Barsby will be accompanying Tom Morris (tenor) singing songs by George Butterworth, Ivor Gurney and Vaughan Williams and there will also be some folk music and songs from Oh What a Lovely War, some of which you may be invited to join in!
Local writer Laurence Green will be launching his new biography of George Butterworth and the spoken words will be provided by Chris Waters, who has inspired the event, and other members of the reading group Visible Ink.
• tickets £8 on the door
• enquiries to Chris Waters on 01803 865458
• in aid of Medecins sans Frontieres

NEW: Wednesday March 14th at 7pm
St John’s Church, BridgetownTALK & RECITAL
by John WellinghamJohn will talk about three Totnes organs; the Father Willis organ at St Mary’s Church , Totnes, the organ that was lost in the fire at St John’s and the present organ, built by William Drake, which he will play.
John has been a major influence on British organ students. He is now in his eighties, and still active as an inspirational organ teacher at Oxford and Cambridge universities. He studied at Dartington College when Imogen Holst, and later John Clements, ran the music department.
He taught piano, organ and recorder at Eton and was a counter-tenor lay clerk in the Chapel Choir before leaving to study organ , harpsichord, viola da gamba, Gregorian chant and Lutheran chorales at the Schola Cantorum Basiliensis in Switzerland.
In 1974, he founded the Loosemore Centre for Organ and Early Music in Buckfastleigh, the first early music centre in Great Britain. It closed in the early 1990s, but the organ building workshop remains open.
There will be a small charge for the talk, which is one of a series of talks the church has arranged to promote the history and heritage of St John’s, and in aid of the St John’s Windows fund.

* * * for listings for April and beyond, please see the Events page * * *

TIME OUTfor Messy Church

This is to remind you that Totnes Messy Church will not be operating for the year 2018. This is owing to the building works at St John’s Church, where we hold our Messy Church once a month. We do not know exactly when the work will be taking place but it seems sensible to take a year out to allow the preparation and building works to take place. Messy Church hopes to return to the updated and more convenient St John’s Church in January 2019 and we look forward very much to seeing you there. We will contact you at the end of 2018 to let you know when and where exactly we’ll be in January 2019.Diana Lusher and all the Totnes Messy Church team
• read about Messy Church

Thank you & News from the Food Bank & Drop In Centre
A massive thankyou to all our congregations, schools and members of the community who have given me, food, clothing, towels, bedding and financial gifts for the Food Bank and Drop In Centre.
The Food Bank has had a lot of people coming for help for whom it has literally been a life line. With Universal Credit rolling out in Totnes next year, they are going to be very busy indeed.
The Family Fun House, and pay as you feel Café are open 2 doors down from the Drop In. As well as being a service to the community, Freedom Centre is hoping that it will provide a steady income stream, along with the Giving Back Scheme so that the work of the Drop In and Food Bank can be securely funded.
We have had some financial gifts given to the Care Gift Account. I am saving up a little so that as people move into homes (5 have done so, so far in 2017) we can help provide some of the essentials of furniture (often from Refurnish) and white goods. The CGA gave £100 to Christians Against Poverty in December which went towards preparing Christmas hampers for families in Totnes and the South Hams.
• Fraser from Totnes CAP said that the hampers are the highlight of many of their clients’ Christmases.Bulletins…Helped a homeless person move off the streets of Totnes on February 2nd into a flat. Great work from the Marketplace Drop in Centre support workers, local authority and other agencies combining together to make this happen. One supporter has really helped this person and she deserves a big thank you. On-going support will be giving by the Drop in with house visits, life skill training and moving in package.Many thanks to everyone who supports the work of the Drop in Centre in Totnes. Your kindness helps us to help real precious people
from streets to homes, being supported and given a chance of a better future.Two other ex-homeless people in Totnes now housed in flats had support visits from myself and another Marketplace support worker early this month to help them. Ongoing commitment from the Drop In to help people thrive and not just survive.
Together we are stronger and can touch the lives of people in our community and bring change, hope and a future for someone in need.|
Thank you, Mark Hatch

The Training Hub
at The Freedom CentreWhen? – Tuesdays 2pm – 4pmDetails – Space and support to help you complete courses. Digital inclusion can be facilitated with access to computers.
• more information here• scroll down for news about the Freedom Funhouse & Café

Tuesday Afternoon House GroupOur next fortnightly meeting will be on Tuesday 20th February at 2pm. We will meet at Anne Binns’ house: Brooks’; Barn, 8 Roswells Lane, Bridgetown and will be starting a 5-week Lent Course. We will meditating on a selection of chapters from Bishop Stephen Cottrell’s book The Things He Carried, A Journey to the Cross – not just the cross itself but the crown of thorns He was forced to wear, the seamless robe that was taken from Him and the other burdens laid upon Him.In order to understand the cross you need to stand under it, with imagination as well as the mind, with the heart as well as the head. Further dates…March 6th: Mary Harris’ house: 4, Riverside, SwallowfieldsMarch 20th: Anne’s house10th April: Mary’s24th April: Mary’s
• any enquiries please call Liz Waterson 01803 849345

Tuesday Evening House GroupOur next fortnightly meeting will be on Tuesday 20th February 7.30pm to 9pm. We will meet at 3 Sparrow Road, Totnes.
In Lent we will be studying The Things He Carried, A Journey to the Cross by Bishop Stephen Cottrell.February 20th: based on the first 3 chaptersMarch 6th: chapters 4 & 5March 20th: chapters 6 to 8
• further details from Carolyn and Tony Stilwell 01803 863030

Life on the Frontline Lent CourseMondays in Lent at 7.30pm, at The Rectory
Described as ‘a 6-session course for equipping whole-life disciples’.
• all welcome.
• please let the Rector know if you hope to attend

Parish Yellow PagesFollowing a meeting between members of St John’s and St Mary’s congregations, it has been decided to collect names & addresses of people attending both churches using specially designed forms. People will be invited to complete these simple forms between January and March with a view to publishing the first Parish Yellow Pages booklets in April. The Yellow Pages will be a valuable resource for the Parish, enabling people to keep in touch with each other and contact Church officers and event or group organisers as necessary.
• participation in the scheme is entirely voluntary but we hope it will be well supported

Candle-makers wanted!Mike Winter has been making candles for St Mary’s church, following John Scott’s careful written instructions, for the last 10 years and now feels that it is time to hand on the job to someone else. We’re looking for someone to take on this rewarding work and produce candles every now and then, when needed.
• please talk to Mike or contact the Reverend Prebendary Julian Ould if you’re interested

RISE – Recovery and Integration Service
at The Mansion, Fore Street
(above the Totnes People’s Cafe, next to the Library)
If you would like to talk to somebody about drug our alcohol use, our drop in is open:Thursdays 10am to 12:30pm
Our service is free, confidential, friendly and open to everyone;
• support for Family and Friends
• advice and Information
• help to make changes
• access point for further treatment

Food Bank collectionsYou can donate food at Morrisons. Look out for the large black plastic bin labelled ‘Food Bank’. You can also drop food off in my porch any time and it will be collected every week.Liz Waterson, 32 Copland Meadows Totnes TQ9 6ER 01803 849345
• more about Totnes Food Bankhere

Donating money to the Food Bank / Drop In / Transition ClubIf you wish to donate to any of the above please make the cheque payable to GIVING BACK and pop a note in with your donation designating the particular area that you wish to give you gift to.
Then either post it or pop it in to Market Place Ministries, 2a Burke Road Industrial Estate Totnes TQ9 5XL.
If you wish to give cash it would be wise to donate in person during the Drop In open hours Monday – Friday 9.45am to 12.45pm, when we can always guarantee that someone will be there. Once again, pop in a note along with the donation designating the gift. Thank you!

Currently on sale…Delicious jam, marmalade, chutney and other produce is now on sale at St Mary’s Church, Totnes – and will continue to be so for some weeks to come!
• jam jars and lids are not needed at the moment!

PARISH NEWSLETTER– the February 2018 issue is online

Any donations to help pay for the newsletter’s publishing costs, however small, would be most welcome, even if you’re reading the magazine online. We can accept BACS payments, cheques to Totnes with Bridgetown PCC or cash. Email Julian Hall for details.

Parish News February 2018 – this month’s newsletter, compiled and designed by Julian Hall, features 20pages full of news, articles and information. Toreceive the extended, full colour version digitally each month, please email Julian Hall.
Many thanks to theadvertisers* in the latest edition!

This issue includes:

Lent – by Reverend Prebendary Julian C Ould

John Wellingham – by Carolyn Stilwel

It’s Just A Thought – by Reverend Cliff Berdinner

All God’s Creation Is Very Good – by Carmen Luscombe

Bishop Sarah To Be Bishop Of London – news from Exeter Anglican

Exeter Anglican – more news from the Diocese

A Life-Changing Trip – Steven Martin has recently returned from the Solomon Islands

Practising Love At Lent – by Archdeacon Christopher Lutcher

Don’t Just Read It, Do It – an extract from UCB’s Word For Today booklet (available free in both churches), see also UCB’s website

To download in pdf format right-click HERE (ctrl+click Mac), or click on the thumbnail to read online.*remember you can advertise in the newsletter – rates updated November 2016

DON’T FORGET…

Clergy days off
Thursdays (Reverend Julian) and Fridays (Reverends Debbie, Jane and Steve) – please respect this by not contacting them on those days!

Prayer
at St John’s Church, every Friday 5pm to 5.45pm
• all welcome

History at St John’s ChurchA series of events sharing memories of Bridgetown in general and the church in particular. Fuller details under Upcoming Events, above.

Pennies for Heaven
There is a collection box at the back of St John’s Church, Bridgetown, every Sunday for your pennies and two-pennies.
The box is titled ‘Pennies for Heaven’.

Weddings
You can download an invoice (Word docx file), updated January 2018 with new rates, for the core costs (Service, Marriage Certificate, Calling of Banns, optional Banns Certificate and heating if applicable) of a Wedding Service provided by the Totnes Team Ministry.• full detailsHERE
• if anyone would like to send us photos from their wedding service, we’d love to have some to post on the website

Rough sleepers around Totnes
We have been advised to call the Police or PCSOs on 101 to report on any rough sleepers in the area, or if we have any concerns about anti- social behaviour.
Please note the above number!

Freedom Centre websiteFor the most up to date news re the Marketplace Food Bank and The Drop In, visit the Freedom Centre Totneswebsite. This really replaces the Totnes Mobile Food Bank who are now mainly working with CAP clients. Food donations for The Totnes Mobile Food Bank can be made at Morrisons who have a brown Wheelie Collection bin for them by the Post Box at the exit.
• Marketplace Food Bank is a walk in food bank and they are working with statutory agencies to help those referred. This is also an Emergency Food Bank.

Parish Giving SchemeThere are various people using the Parish Giving Scheme who would be more than happy to answer any queries and help with the paperwork if necessary.
• please contact Julian Hall on 01803 867537 about this in the first instance

Help & Advice
The Need Help poster has recently been updated (March 2017).
• click here to download a printable A4 version

Coffee at St Mary’s Church, TotnesServers needed! It seems that quite a few people like drinking coffee after the service, but not many like serving it… Please contact one of the team if you’d like to help – otherwise it’s something that will disappear, which would be a shame!

Food Bank ItemsPlease check the sell by dates on food bank items.
I have to go through all the gifts and remove those that are out of date, empty the cans and then recycle – rather messy work. Any out of date food sent to the Food Bank which has to be disposed of by them has to be paid for. Also, very sadly, we are unable to give homemade gifts as there is provenance or dating. This is not problem at our fairs or coffee mornings, because purchaser and seller deal directly with one another. Any gifts, if you are unable to leave them in St Mary’s Church, may be left at any time in my porch. I am also collecting duvets and blankets and clothes for Mark, who will be opening the Drop In as a night shelter this winter.
• further information: Liz Waterson 01803 84934 32 Copland Meadows TQ9 6ER
• remember, we would love to receive more toiletries and household cleaning products!
• information about Food Bank opening times is here

Food Bank collectionsYou can bring your food bank donations – especially toiletries and cleaning products please – to any Sunday service at St Mary’s Church.
No need anymore to wait for the first Sunday of the month. Many thanks to everyone who donates – your help is greatly appreciated.
• you can now once more take your food bank donations to Morrisons in Totnes – there is a collection bin by the toilets
• please check all sell-by dates (see above)!
• further information from Liz Waterson on 01803 84934
• more about Totnes Food Bankhere

Totnes CaringWe are always desperate for more volunteer drivers and I was wondering if any of your wonderful parishioners would be interested. If you have a little time to spare and are interested in becoming a volunteer car driver for Totnes Caring, please contact Sue Alford or Jacquie Mills on 01803 865684 or email us.
Thanking you in advance!
• download a printable poster

Totnes Church Services
Below is a handy at-a-glance summary of the various regular services in Totnes.•click here to download a printable version
• the latest version of this list is also permanently available on our Services page

The Cross in Your PocketSeveral of our ladies have been embroidering pocket crosses – they are free and can be found in St George’s Chapel.
They have been extremely popular and we have received many thanks for them. If you would like to help make some more, please contact Jean Marr on: 01803 847839• the beautiful cross pictured left (click to enlarge) was made by one of the stewards at St Mary’s Church, Totnes

Table TalkEvery third Thursday of the month at The Seven Stars, between 10am and 12noon. Meet at the large table at the back, behind the bar, for coffee, etc.
• contact Anne Binns for more information on 01803 840146

Sunday LunchesWould you like to have a roast lunch at the Albert Inn, Bridgetown, on the first Sunday of the month, with members of St John’s and St Mary’s churches?
• to book, please ring Liz Balkwill 01803 863355 or Anne Binns on 01803 840146by the previous Thursday

Meditation GroupThe Meditation Group meets at St John’s Church, Bridgetown, on the 2nd Friday of each month, from 7.30pm to 9pm.
• everyone is welcome to attend this informal group
• enquiries to Tricia Stokes on 01803 762158

For further information on any of the above Community News items, please contact Liz Waterson on 01803 849345, or email Liz

WELCOME to our Christmas News blog. Below are listings for the upcoming seasonal services at our Team Churches and also a separate list of other festive events. Alternatively, head over to the Events page which at the moment has services & entertainments woven together, so you can work out when not to try to be in two places at once. It’s worth checking there now and then anyway, in case of additions or alterations.
We’ve also included, below, a few further events, stretching a bit deeper into the New Year, so that all those who received diaries and calendars amongst their gifts can start filling up 2018 now!
Don’t forget to scroll down to the Community News section – there are quite a few important and informative new items on there.Many thanks to everyone who sent in words and pictures throughout 2017. We hope everyone has a Very Happy Christmas and a Peaceful New Year.

CHRISTMAS BANNERSat St Mary’s Church, Totnes

Reverend Prebendary Julian C Ould and Reverend Steve Jones preside over the unfurling of one of the Christmas Banners.
Banners on display from local charities.• click the photos to enlarge them

PET SERVICE 2017at St Mary’s Church, Totnes

The Pet Service was a resounding success! Above are photos of just a few who attended and participated.

Sunday 7th January at 11.15am
St John’s Church, BridgetownCONTEMPORARY SERVICE

Sunday 7th January at 11.15am
St Mary’s Church, TotnesSUNG EUCHARIST

FURTHER 2018 SPECIAL SERVICES in Bridgetown & Totnes

Sunday 7th January at 2.30pm
St Mary’s Church, TotnesMARY HARRISService of Celebration
Mary would love you to join her in a service to celebrate her life, her husband Roy, her family and all of her friends. They look forward to seeing you!• the service will be followed by light refreshments in the church
• if you would like to make a cake or help in any way with the food preparation for this very special occasion, please contact Sandra on 01626 330049 (evenings are best) who will be coordinating all contributions. Thank you!

NEW: Sunday 21st January9.30am—St John’s Church, Bridgetown11.15 am—St Mary’s Church, Totnes
CHARITY SUNDAY
in aid of The Children’s SocietySpeaker: Gill Ford, Relationship Manager, South West
The plate collection from the two morning services and Evensong will go to the Children’s Society. Please bring cash or cheque. Your regular monthly giving is not included.
• if you aren’t able to come to the service but would like to donate, please contact the churchwardens, Lynne Birch or Carolyn Stilwell

FESTIVE EVENTS

Friday 15th December at 7.30pm
St John’s Church, BridgetownCELEBRATING CHRISTMAS
IN WORDS AND MUSIC
with Words For Voices and The Devon Waitesdirected by Bob Barsby
• in aid of St John’s Church and Kampala Music School, Uganda
• tickets £10 ( U16 £5 ) including mulled wine and mince pies, from Creative Crafts and Needlework shop, opposite St Mary’s Church, or from Carolyn Stilwell 01803 863030
• download a printable poster

Saturday 16th December at 7.30pm
St Luke’s Church, Buckfastleigh TQ11 0DACOLLATI SINGERSChristmas ConcertFollowing their sell-out concert in Buckfast Abbey in November, The Collati Singers conducted by Trefor Farrow are back – this time at St Luke’s Church Buckfastleigh – with a new programme for their Christmas concert. The programme features Bob Chilcott’s On Christmas Night, Vaughan Williams’ Fantasia on Christmas Carols, and other shorter seasonal pieces. Organist Robin Stubbs.
• entry is FREE, no booking necessary
• retiring collection
• singers include Reverend Prebendary Julian C Ould and Jane Mountford

Wednesday 20th December
10am to 1pm
St John’s Church, BridgetownCOMMUNITY CAFÉ
A place of friendship and fellowship to the community.
The café runs on a pay what you feel basis.

2018

cancelled: Saturday 27th January
St Mary’s Church, TotnesFriends of St Mary’s Coffee ConcertHOLOCAUST CONCERT
by Elie Fruchter
• updated 25.01.18: Elie has contracted an infection following recent surgery and will not now be able to perform. Get well soon, Elie!

Saturday 10th February at 2pm
St Mary’s Church, TotnesFOUR-HANDED PIANO RECITAL
by Veronika Shoot and Sasha GrynyukIncluding Rachmaninov Suite, Schubert Fantasie and more.
In aid of the Friends of St Mary’s stained glass window restoration fund. As a child aged 7, Veronika Shoot was hailed by Lord Yehudi Menuhin as “destined to become a great pianist”. Sasha Grynyuk received guidance from Alfred Brendel and Murray Perahia, among others. He was described by the legendary Charles Rosen as “an impressive artist with remarkable, unfailing musicality always moving with the most natural, electrifying, and satisfying interpretations”.‘Don’t miss this very special event by two amazing young Russian-born musicians! And don’t forget to invite your family and friends along too.’
• tickets£8 (accompanied under-16’s free but still need tickets) online or from Julian Hall – update: tickets are now also on sale at the Creative Crafts and Needleworkshop, directly opposite St Mary’s; this is open 9.15am to 5.15pm Monday to Saturday, telephone 01803 866002 (people are asked to bring the right money i.e. £8 per ticket if possible ,as they don’t like having to give change)
• join the Friends of St Mary‘s from just £1.43 per month and help preserve our beautiful church for posterity

SPONSORED WALKto Team Churches

How many wise men does it take to raise the money needed to complete our ‘Windows of Opportunity’ project at St. John’s in 2018? The answer, according to Steve Jones and John Luscombe, is as many as possible!John and Steve are inviting ‘wise’ men and women to join them on a Sponsored Epiphany Pilgrimage around all nine churches of the Totnes Team on Friday and Saturday, 5th and 6th January. The plan is to start at Stoke Gabriel with breakfast (kindly provided by Stoke Gabriel parish) and a prayer on Friday morning, taking in Marldon and Berry Pomeroy before stopping for lunch at St John’s, Bridgetown.
We shall hold a short Pilgrim Liturgy in each church, inviting church members to join us. After lunch we shall carry on to Dartington, by which time it will probably be getting dark, so time to stop!
On Saturday we shall gather again at Dartington for another breakfast (thank-you, Dartington!) Then back into Totnes via Brooking and the ridge above Follaton, and a visit to St Mary’s, then lunch. After lunch we shall continue along the John Musgrave trail to Ashprington and Cornworthy. At Cornworthy there will be an Epiphany Tea and a chance to rest our weary feet before Evensong.John and Steve are looking for (a) fellow pilgrims and (b) sponsors. You are invited to join them for all or part of the pilgrimage. The route has been planned to stay away from roads and traffic as much as possible and is about 24 miles (13 on Friday, 11 on Saturday), but you’re welcome to do just one day or one section. Or just come and meet them at one of the churches and join in the Pilgrim Liturgy. Sponsorship forms are available to sponsor them – or if you’re going to walk, to get your own sponsors.
• you can also give through our Just Giving page

TIME OUTfor Messy Church

Owing to the building and repairs to St John’s Church, there will be no Messy Church for the whole of 2018. We will certainly come back in 2019.
• read about Messy Church

COMMUNITY NEWS ROUND-UPwith Liz Waterson

Fundraising FeedbackSome of the pupils from Ontrack Education and their teacher Rebecca Robinson (also a parishioner at Dartington), who sold handmade goodies and Christmas decorations outside St Mary’s Church in early December when it was so wet and windy. Rebecca writes:“Thanks for everything on Friday. We raised over £110! I gave it to Bonita at the Freedom Centre and they were delighted. The pupils loved the church with its banners- I will be coming back up with them to look around if we have time again this week!”• click the photo to enlarge it

Crib FiguresMary and Joseph crib figures are seeking overnight shelter in homes on Totnes and Dartington on their travels through Advent. This is a good way of making friendships and they bring blessings on your home!
Please sign up on the sheet by St John’s coffee table or contact Joy Hanson on 01803 445470 to book a date. Hospitality involves providing simple refreshments for their carriers then visiting the next hosts the following afternoon.

Parish Yellow PagesFollowing a meeting between members of St John’s and St Mary’s congregations, it has been decided to collect names & addresses of people attending both churches using specially designed forms. People will be invited to complete these simple forms between January and March with a view to publishing the first Parish Yellow Pages booklets in April. The Yellow Pages will be a valuable resource for the Parish, enabling people to keep in touch with each other and contact Church officers and event or group organisers as necessary.
• participation in the scheme is entirely voluntary but we hope it will be well supported

Candle-makers wanted!Mike Winter has been making candles for St Mary’s church, following John Scott’s careful written instructions, for the last 10 years and now feels that it is time to hand on the job to someone else. We’re looking for someone to take on this rewarding work and produce candles every now and then, when needed.
• please talk to Mike or contact the Reverend Prebendary Julian Ould if you’re interested

RISE – Recovery and Integration Service
at The Mansion, Fore Street
(above the Totnes People’s Cafe, next to the Library)
If you would like to talk to somebody about drug our alcohol use, our drop in is open:Thursdays 10am to 12:30pm
Our service is free, confidential, friendly and open to everyone;
• support for Family and Friends
• advice and Information
• help to make changes
• access point for further treatment

Afternoon House GroupOur first meeting of 2018 will be on Tuesday 9th January at 2pm. We will meet at Anne Binns’ house: 8, Roswell’s Lane and we will be studying Chapter 14 of Living Faithfully: Nurturing Friendship.On Tuesday January 23rd we will meet at Mary Harris’ house; 4, Riverside Swallowfields and we shall study Chapter 15 of Living Faithfully: Building Community.
• further details from Liz Waterson 01803 849345

Totnes Street Pastors• click the image to enlarge the Autumn 2017 newsletter – or click here to download a printable version

Food Bank collectionsYou can donate food at Morrisons. Look out for the large black plastic bin labelled ‘Food Bank’. You can also drop food off in my porch any time and it will be collected every week.Liz Waterson, 32 Copland Meadows Totnes TQ9 6ER 01803 849345
• more about Totnes Food Bankhere

Donating money to the Food Bank / Drop In / Transition ClubIf you wish to donate to any of the above please make the cheque payable to GIVING BACK and pop a note in with your donation designating the particular area that you wish to give you gift to.
Then either post it or pop it in to Market Place Ministries, 2a Burke Road Industrial Estate Totnes TQ9 5XL.
If you wish to give cash it would be wise to donate in person during the Drop In open hours Monday – Friday 9.45am to 12.45pm, when we can always guarantee that someone will be there. Once again, pop in a note along with the donation designating the gift. Thank you!

Currently on sale…Delicious jam, marmalade, chutney and other produce is now on sale at St Mary’s Church, Totnes – and will continue to be so for some weeks to come!
• jam jars and lids are not needed at the moment!

PARISH NEWSLETTER– the December 2017 issue is online

Parish News December 2017 – this month’s newsletter, compiled and designed by Julian Hall, features 20pages full of news, articles and information. Toreceive the extended, full colour version digitally each month, please email Julian Hall.
Many thanks to theadvertisers* in the latest edition!

This issue includes:

Advent – by Reverend Steve Jones

Follow Our Star – a Sponsored Epiphany Pilgrimage around all nine churches of the Totnes Team

Our Compassionate God Reaches Out – by the Right Reverend Robert Atwell, Bishop of Exeter

Practise Humility – another extract from UCB’s Word For Today booklet (available free in both churches), see also UCB’s website

To download in pdf format right-click HERE (ctrl+click Mac), or click on the thumbnail to read online.*remember you can advertise in the newsletter – rates updated November 2016

DON’T FORGET…

Clergy days off
Thursdays (Reverend Julian) and Fridays (Reverends Debbie, Jane and Steve) – please respect this by not contacting them on those days!

Prayer
at St John’s Church, every Friday 5pm to 5.45pm
• all welcome

History at St John’s ChurchA series of events sharing memories of Bridgetown in general and the church in particular. Fuller details under Upcoming Events, above.

Pennies for Heaven
There is a collection box at the back of St John’s Church, Bridgetown, every Sunday for your pennies and two-pennies.
The box is titled ‘Pennies for Heaven’.

Weddings
You can download an invoice (Word docx file), updated May 2017 with new BACS information, for the core costs (Service, Marriage Certificate, Calling of Banns, optional Banns Certificate and heating if applicable) of a Wedding Service provided by the Totnes Team Ministry.• full detailsHERE
• if anyone would like to send us photos from their wedding service, we’d love to have some to post on the website

Rough sleepers around Totnes
We have been advised to call the Police or PCSOs on 101 to report on any rough sleepers in the area, or if we have any concerns about anti- social behaviour.
Please note the above number!

Freedom Centre websiteFor the most up to date news re the Marketplace Food Bank and The Drop In, visit the Freedom Centre Totneswebsite. This really replaces the Totnes Mobile Food Bank who are now mainly working with CAP clients. Food donations for The Totnes Mobile Food Bank can be made at Morrisons who have a brown Wheelie Collection bin for them by the Post Box at the exit.
• Marketplace Food Bank is a walk in food bank and they are working with statutory agencies to help those referred. This is also an Emergency Food Bank.

Parish Giving SchemeThere are various people using the Parish Giving Scheme who would be more than happy to answer any queries and help with the paperwork if necessary.
• please contact Julian Hall on 01803 867537 about this in the first instance

Help & Advice
The Need Help poster has recently been updated (March 2017).
• click here to download a printable A4 version

Coffee at St Mary’s Church, TotnesServers needed! It seems that quite a few people like drinking coffee after the service, but not many like serving it… Please contact one of the team if you’d like to help – otherwise it’s something that will disappear, which would be a shame!

Food Bank ItemsPlease check the sell by dates on food bank items.
I have to go through all the gifts and remove those that are out of date, empty the cans and then recycle – rather messy work. Any out of date food sent to the Food Bank which has to be disposed of by them has to be paid for. Also, very sadly, we are unable to give homemade gifts as there is provenance or dating. This is not problem at our fairs or coffee mornings, because purchaser and seller deal directly with one another. Any gifts, if you are unable to leave them in St Mary’s Church, may be left at any time in my porch. I am also collecting duvets and blankets and clothes for Mark, who will be opening the Drop In as a night shelter this winter.
• further information: Liz Waterson 01803 84934 32 Copland Meadows TQ9 6ER
• remember, we would love to receive more toiletries and household cleaning products!
• information about Food Bank opening times is here

Food Bank collectionsYou can bring your food bank donations – especially toiletries and cleaning products please – to any Sunday service at St Mary’s Church.
No need anymore to wait for the first Sunday of the month. Many thanks to everyone who donates – your help is greatly appreciated.
• you can now once more take your food bank donations to Morrisons in Totnes – there is a collection bin by the toilets
• please check all sell-by dates (see above)!
• further information from Liz Waterson on 01803 84934
• more about Totnes Food Bankhere

Totnes CaringWe are always desperate for more volunteer drivers and I was wondering if any of your wonderful parishioners would be interested. If you have a little time to spare and are interested in becoming a volunteer car driver for Totnes Caring, please contact Sue Alford or Jacquie Mills on 01803 865684 or email us.
Thanking you in advance!
• download a printable poster

Totnes Church Services
Below is a handy at-a-glance summary of the various regular services in Totnes.•click here to download a printable version
• the latest version of this list is also permanently available on our Services page

The Cross in Your PocketSeveral of our ladies have been embroidering pocket crosses – they are free and can be found in St George’s Chapel.
They have been extremely popular and we have received many thanks for them. If you would like to help make some more, please contact Jean Marr on: 01803 847839• the beautiful cross pictured left (click to enlarge) was made by one of the stewards at St Mary’s Church, Totnes

Table TalkEvery third Thursday of the month at The Seven Stars, between 10am and 12noon. Meet at the large table at the back, behind the bar, for coffee, etc.
• contact Anne Binns for more information on 01803 840146

Sunday LunchesWould you like to have a roast lunch at the Albert Inn, Bridgetown, on the first Sunday of the month, with members of St John’s and St Mary’s churches?
• to book, please ring Liz Balkwill 01803 863355 or Anne Binns on 01803 840146by the previous Thursday

Meditation GroupThe Meditation Group meets at St John’s Church, Bridgetown, on the 2nd Friday of each month, from 7.30pm to 9pm.
• everyone is welcome to attend this informal group
• enquiries to Tricia Stokes on 01803 762158

For further information on any of the above Community News items, please contact Liz Waterson on 01803 849345, or email Liz

WE ALWAYS WELCOME photographs, and some lovely ones have recently arrived to echo recent events and to brighten up this bulletin. As summer fades, Harvest Services arrive at the Team Churches (see below for the current list). We even have advance news of some (not all, yet) Christmastime events – though we’ve kept most of those dates just to the Events page for now, so that we can focus here more on Autumn…but do go check the listings if you want to fill your diary up.
Displaying once again St Mary’s huge potential as a venue for all kinds of events, the Bodykind Festival has chosen the Church for its ‘Core Event’, which features talks, entertainments and workshops. A few days later there’s an important evening happening at the Civic Hall, highlighting drugs-related safety issues for the young people of this town.
If you are into tales of the unknown, head over to St John’s in late October and Bob Mann will tell you things you didn’t know about Bridgetown. Or, if you envy Doctor Who for being able to ‘talk baby’, take your tiny one to St John’s on a Thursday morning and Amy will teach you both some baby signing.
We’ve added a very warm round-up to Wild Church‘s page of their past year of adventures and eco-spiritual services, and hints of more to come…
Scroll down this page for various bits of community news (someone asked how to donate money to the Food Bank and related projects; a good question, and we’ve found the ideal answer and replied on here).Thanks as always to everyone who sent in words and pictures.PS Last but never least, the OctoberParish Newsletter is now online – a link and contents details are below.

So many people enjoyed a wonderful tea at Mary Harris’s Garden Party, at the end of July. With generous donations the final figure is over £1600, boosting the fundraising for St John’s New Windows Appeal. Mary would like to thank all who helped from all our churches in Totnes, a fine Ecumenical effort of fellowship over the tea pots and bric-a-brac! Click the images to view them larger.

COMMUNITY CAFÉ@ St John’s

The Community Café at St John’s Church, Bridgetown, continues to run on Wednesdays, 10am to 1pm, on a pay what you feel basis.
A place of friendship and fellowship to the community.

SPECIAL SERVICESin Totnes, Brooking, Bridgetown & Dartington

Sunday 1st October at 11.15am
St Mary’s Church, TotnesTEAM SERVICECelebrant: Reverend Steve Jones
• no services at St John’s Church, Bridgetown on this day
• this will be the first celebration of the Eucharist by Steve and we invite you to join us for light refreshments in the Church following the service.

Sunday 1st Octoberat 3pmSt Barnabas’ Church, BrookingHARVEST SERVICE.

Sunday 1st October
from 6.30pm to 7.15pm
St John’s Church, BridgetownSACRED SPACE
theme: The River of LifeA continuing initiative of St Mary’s and St John’s churches, an opportunity for alternative and creative worship.
• all welcome• for more information, call Reverend Debbie Parsons on 01803 840113

Sunday 8th October at 11am
St John’s Church, BridgetownJOINT HARVEST SERVICE
followed by LUNCH
• no 11.15am service at St Mary’s Church, Totnes on this day

Sunday 5th November at 11.15am
St John’s Church, BridgetownMONTHLY CONTEMPORARY-STYLE SERVICEThese services are be in addition to the regular 9.30am service and will take place on the first Sunday of each month.
• the service is open to anyone and everyone, including children of any age!

for your diary: Sunday 3rd December at 6.30pm
St Mary’s Church, TotnesADVENT CAROL SERVICE
• Christmas is coming, and so are further details for this event!
• further Christmastime listings are on the Events page

Wednesdays 4th, 11th, 18th & 25th October
10am to 1pm
St John’s Church, BridgetownCOMMUNITY CAFÉ
A place of friendship and fellowship to the community.
The café runs on a pay what you feel basis.

NEW: Saturday 14th October from 10.30am to 4.30pmCore Event at St Mary’s Church, TotnesBODYKIND FESTIVALAn innovative weekend about looking at ways of feeling more comfortable in the skin we’re in. Inspiring speakers, workshops, art, photography, theatre, dance, film and music. St Mary’s Church is the venue for the Core Event – the overall festival runs from 13th to 15th of October and features events in other venues, elsewhere in central Totnes, too.
• full details and ticket sales are on the event’s website

Saturday 15th October at 3pm
St John’s Church, BridgetownDIVERTIMENTO STRING QUARTETLudwig van Beethoven String Quartet Op 18 no 4 in C minor, Heitor Villa Lobos String Quartet no 1 and Maurice Ravel String Quartet in FA most stimulating and varied programme beginning with Beethoven in dramatic mood. Villa Lobos’s Quartet is in six short movements which take the form of a suite, alternating song and dance movements. Ravel’s Quartet is one of the greatest works in the string quartet repertoire. Altogether a varied and easily approachable programme.
• tickets £12 children & students free, from Divertimento01803 863677 Drift Records, High Street, Totnes 01803 866828 or at the door

NEW: Tuesday 17th October from 6.30pm to 9pmTotnes Civic HallKEEPING YOUNG TOTNES SAFEYou are invited to help make a positive, constructive community response to the recent, tragic deaths of local teenagers through the misuse of drugs.
Want to find out about support for young people offered by local organisations?
Affected or concerned about issues related to the misuse of drugs by young people in the area? Want to share your concerns and ideas with other parents and interested members of the community? Could your experiences and ideas contribute to a programme of positive activities with and for young people in our town?
Then please join us!
• light refreshments will be available from 6.30pm
• for more information see posters further down this page, and / or email

Saturday 21st October
from 3.30pm to 5.30pm
St John’s Church, BridgetownMESSY CHURCH
theme: Creation• more about Messy Churchhere
• see some photos of Messy Church• photo (right) by Joy Hanson

CANCELLED Saturday 21st October at 7.30pm
St Mary’s Church, TotnesCONVIVIOTotnes Early Music Society regrets to have to announce the last minute cancellation of this concert, due to the illness of one of the players, who has been taken into hospital. Both TEMS and Convivio are keen to arrange a future date. Members and advance ticket holders are being contacted, and we hope to be able to publish a revised date as soon as possible.
• TEMS website

NEW: Saturday 4th November 10.30am to 4pmSt Mary’s Church Hall, TotnesPAY WHAT YOU FEEL CAFÉ + BRIC A BRAC
Tasty food, freshly prepared to order – raising money to pay for a Children’s Singing Workshop, coming soon with Choir Director Stephen Tanner.
(Free refreshment for St Mary’s Working Party on that day.)
• enquiries please emailBric a Brac wanted!To sell at the above fundraiser. Collection of small to medium size items possible in Totnes area by arrangement.
Please contact Jan Dietz 01803 770515 or Sandra Nicholson 01626 330049.

BABY SIGNING CLASSESat St John’s

Thursdays from 10am to 11amLearn to communicate with your baby before it can speak, at a baby signing class. The classes at St John’s Church, Bridgetown, will be half an hour of singing familiar nursery rhymes, learning some signs to help communication with babies, and then there is a different sensory aspect to the class each week, including bubbles, scarves, mirrors and more. The second half of the class is social time – a chance for parents / carers to meet other families and enjoy a hot drink and biscuits.
• please contact Amy on 07973932477 or email
• website

KEEPING YOUNG TOTNES SAFE – a Caring Town Information Exchange event

COMMUNITY NEWS ROUND-UPwith Liz Waterson

Totnes Team Afternoon House Groupupdated: Our next meetings are on Tuesdays 17th & 31st October at 2pm. We will meet at Mary Harris’s House: 4 Riverside, Totnes. We will continue studying the book, Living Faithfully by John Pritchard.
• any queries please ring Liz Waterson on 01803 849345

Tuesday Evening House GroupOur next meeting is on Tuesday 3rd October at 7.30pm. We will meet at 3 Sparrow Road. This term we will be continuing to discuss topics raised in the book, Living Faithfully by John Pritchard.
• any queries please ring Carolyn Stillwell on 01803 863030

Food Bank collectionsYou can now donate food at Morrisons once again. Look out for the large black plastic bin labelled ‘Food Bank’. You can also drop food off in my porch any time and it will be collected every week.Liz Waterson, 32 Copland Meadows Totnes TQ9 6ER 01803 849345
• more about Totnes Food Bankhere

Donating money to the Food Bank / Drop In / Transition ClubIf you wish to donate to any of the above please make the cheque payable to GIVING BACK and pop a note in with your donation designating the particular area that you wish to give you gift to.
Then either post it or pop it in to Market Place Ministries, 2a Burke Road Industrial Estate Totnes TQ9 5XL.
If you wish to give cash it would be wise to donate in person during the Drop In open hours Monday – Friday 9.45am to 12.45pm, when we can always guarantee that someone will be there. Once again, pop in a note along with the donation designating the gift. Thank you!

Calling charity Christmas Card shop volunteersCould you join the friendly team manning the Totnes Cards for Good Causes pop-up charity Christmas Card shop? We are seeking more volunteers to help run their charity Christmas card shop in Bogan House in the lead up to Christmas. The shop will be open from 20th October to 9th December.Volunteers are asked to just give three hours of time once a week or fortnight over seven weeks to help raise funds for national and local charities. Training is provided and volunteers usually work either a morning or afternoon session. A chance to meet new people, get some work experience or simply get involved in something worthwhile and rewarding.
• please contact Frances Guy, Regional Organiser, 01392 439599 or email

Currently on sale…Delicious jam, marmalade, chutney and other produce is now on sale at St Mary’s Church, Totnes – and will continue to be so for some weeks to come!
• jam jars and lids are not needed at the moment!

PARISH NEWSLETTER– the October 2017 issue is online

Parish News October 2017 – this month’s newsletter, compiled and designed by Julian Hall, features 20pages full of news, articles and information. Toreceive the extended, full colour version in your inbox each month, please email Julian Hall.
Many thanks to theadvertisers* in the latest edition!

This issue includes:

Mary Harris’s Garden Party – photographs

You Can’t See Me, Can You? – by Reverend Gill Still

It’s Just A Thought – by the Reverend Cliff Berdinner

St Mary’s: The Reformation? (part 2) – by Ian Wintersgill

Ideas For Growing Your Rural Church – Exeter Anglican Church

Full Steam Ahead For Steve – the new Railway Chaplain for South West England

God Has A Plan, Trust Him – another extract from UCB’s Word For Today booklet (available free in both churches), see also UCB’s website

To download in pdf format right-click HERE (ctrl+click Mac), or click on the thumbnail to read online.*remember you can advertise in the newsletter – rates updated November 2016

DON’T FORGET…

Clergy days off
Thursdays (Reverend Julian) and Fridays (Reverends Debbie, Jane and Steve) – please respect this by not contacting them on those days!

Prayer
at St John’s Church, every Friday 5pm to 5.45pm
• all welcome

History at St John’s ChurchA series of events sharing memories of Bridgetown in general and the church in particular. Fuller details under Upcoming Events, above.

Pennies for Heaven
There is a collection box at the back of St John’s Church, Bridgetown, every Sunday for your pennies and two-pennies.
The box is titled ‘Pennies for Heaven’.

Weddings
You can download an invoice (Word docx file), updated May 2017 with new BACS information, for the core costs (Service, Marriage Certificate, Calling of Banns, optional Banns Certificate and heating if applicable) of a Wedding Service provided by the Totnes Team Ministry.• full detailsHERE
• if anyone would like to send us photos from their wedding service, we’d love to have some to post on the website

Rough sleepers around Totnes
We have been advised to call the Police or PCSOs on 101 to report on any rough sleepers in the area, or if we have any concerns about anti- social behaviour.
Please note the above number!

Freedom Centre websiteFor the most up to date news re the Marketplace Food Bank and The Drop In, visit the Freedom Centre Totneswebsite. This really replaces the Totnes Mobile Food Bank who are now mainly working with CAP clients. Food donations for The Totnes Mobile Food Bank can be made at Morrisons who have a brown Wheelie Collection bin for them by the Post Box at the exit.
• Marketplace Food Bank is a walk in food bank and they are working with statutory agencies to help those referred. This is also an Emergency Food Bank.

Parish Giving SchemeThere are various people using the Parish Giving Scheme who would be more than happy to answer any queries and help with the paperwork if necessary.
• please contact Julian Hall on 01803 867537 about this in the first instance

Help & Advice
The Need Help poster has recently been updated (March 2017).
• click here to download a printable A4 version

Coffee at St Mary’s Church, TotnesServers needed! It seems that quite a few people like drinking coffee after the service, but not many like serving it… Please contact one of the team if you’d like to help – otherwise it’s something that will disappear, which would be a shame!

Food Bank ItemsPlease check the sell by dates on food bank items.
I have to go through all the gifts and remove those that are out of date, empty the cans and then recycle – rather messy work. Any out of date food sent to the Food Bank which has to be disposed of by them has to be paid for. Also, very sadly, we are unable to give homemade gifts as there is provenance or dating. This is not problem at our fairs or coffee mornings, because purchaser and seller deal directly with one another. Any gifts, if you are unable to leave them in St Mary’s Church, may be left at any time in my porch. I am also collecting duvets and blankets and clothes for Mark, who will be opening the Drop In as a night shelter this winter.
• further information: Liz Waterson 01803 84934 32 Copland Meadows TQ9 6ER
• remember, we would love to receive more toiletries and household cleaning products!
• information about Food Bank opening times is here

Food Bank collectionsYou can bring your food bank donations – especially toiletries and cleaning products please – to any Sunday service at St Mary’s Church.
No need anymore to wait for the first Sunday of the month. Many thanks to everyone who donates – your help is greatly appreciated.
• you can now once more take your food bank donations to Morrisons in Totnes – there is a collection bin by the toilets
• please check all sell-by dates (see above)!
• further information from Liz Waterson on 01803 84934
• more about Totnes Food Bankhere

Totnes CaringWe are always desperate for more volunteer drivers and I was wondering if any of your wonderful parishioners would be interested. If you have a little time to spare and are interested in becoming a volunteer car driver for Totnes Caring, please contact Sue Alford or Jacquie Mills on 01803 865684 or email us.
Thanking you in advance!
• download a printable poster

Totnes Church Services
Below is a handy at-a-glance summary of the various regular services in Totnes.•click here to download a printable version
• the latest version of this list is also permanently available on our Services page

The Cross in Your PocketSeveral of our ladies have been embroidering pocket crosses – they are free and can be found in St George’s Chapel.
They have been extremely popular and we have received many thanks for them. If you would like to help make some more, please contact Jean Marr on: 01803 847839• the beautiful cross pictured left (click to enlarge) was made by one of the stewards at St Mary’s Church, Totnes

Table TalkEvery third Thursday of the month at The Seven Stars, between 10am and 12noon. Meet at the large table at the back, behind the bar, for coffee, etc.
• contact Anne Binns for more information on 01803 840146

Sunday LunchesWould you like to have a roast lunch at the Albert Inn, Bridgetown, on the first Sunday of the month, with members of St John’s and St Mary’s churches?
• to book, please ring Liz Balkwill 01803 863355 or Anne Binns on 01803 840146by the previous Thursday

Meditation GroupThe Meditation Group meets at St John’s Church, Bridgetown, on the 2nd Friday of each month, from 7.30pm to 9pm.
• everyone is welcome to attend this informal group
• enquiries to Tricia Stokes on 01803 762158

For further information on any of the above Community News items, please contact Liz Waterson on 01803 849345, or email Liz

STILL TO COME IN AUGUST is a Coffee Concert with Robin Andrews on border bagpipes (‘not too loud’, we are assured), recorder and tin whistle. Then a few days later there’s this year’s bank holiday weekender, Sea Change Festival, which builds on its hugely successful debut in 2016, and so far looks to be presenting nine performances at St Mary’s Church over the Friday and Saturday evenings. There’s no Evensong and likewise no Messy Church this month – those two favourites return triumphantly in September. Further ahead, if you want to fill your diary early, there are the four St Mary’s events from Totnes Early Music Society‘s new season – see the newly-added listings on the Events page.Further down this page there’s quite a bot of Community News, including a report with photos of the recent Heritage Tea Party at St John’s Church, and also some stories of those from Bridgetown who gave their lives in service during WW1. There’s some feedback from the New Union Flag project, plus the latest news from the Drop In, the Freedom Centre and Marketplace Ministries. Thanks as always to everyone who sent in words and pictures.PS If you haven’t yet gotten hold of the AugustParish Newsletter, there’s a contents list way down below and a link to download the extended, colour version.

SPECIAL SERVICEin Totnes

Sunday 24th September at 10.30am
St Mary’s Church, TotnesORDINATION to the PRIESTHOOD
of our Curate, the Reverend Steve JonesCelebrant: Bishop Nick McKinnel
• the Ordination replaces all other services in the Totnes Team, except for the service at St Mary’s Church, Totnes at 8am• Steve will be celebrating his first Eucharist on Sunday 1st October at 11.15am, at St Mary’s Church, Totnes

Sunday 5th November at 11.15am
St John’s Church, BridgetownMONTHLY CONTEMPORARY-STYLE SERVICEThis service will be in addition to the regular 9.30am service and will take place on the first Sunday of each month.
• the service is open to anyone and everyone, including children of any age!

UPCOMING EVENTS

Sunday 13th Augustmeet at 3pm at St John’s car park to share carsTen Commandments at Buckland BeaconSUMMER PILGRIMAGE
The Tablets of the Ten Commandments at Buckland Beacon have recently been restored and we a planning a summer pilgrimage there with a short Worship Celebration led by the Reverend Steve Jones, followed by a picnic tea and a longer walk.
• for more information email Joy Hanson or telephone 01803 445470

Tuesdays 15th August & 22nd August from 10.30am to 1pm’ish
St Mary’s Church, TotnesTUESDAY SPECIAL!!!!
Toasted teacake, coffee, warm welcome – every Tuesday until September. Tables and chairs outside in the sunshine (inside seating also available). In support of the Friends of St Mary’s
• more information from Sandra Nicholson on 01626 330049

Wednesdays 16th August & 23rd August from 10am to 1pm
St John’s Church, BridgetownCOMMUNITY CAFÉ
A place of friendship and fellowship to the community.
The café will run on a pay what you feel basis.

Saturday 19th August at 11am
St Mary’s Church, Totnes
Coffee Concert by Robin AndrewsBORDER LANDS
hosted by the Friends of St Mary’sMusic played on the border bagpipes – these pipes are about half as loud as the Highland Pipes and much mellower. A mixture of tunes from various British and European Traditions, as well as some original compositions. There will also be some quieter interludes with tunes on the recorder and tin whistle.
• entrance by suggested donation of £5

ON JULY 1st THIS YEAR, there was a big tea party at St John’s Church, Bridgetown, when people were invited to come and share memories of Bridgetown and St John’s Church, and to bring any pictures they had to show everyone – and to see a display of pictures of historic Bridgetown, people who were part of the Church history, the church before the fire and the fire. (click the photos to view them larger)This event was to promote the heritage of St John’s. It was a free event, but people kindly donated £237 towards the cost of the new windows.We also have three history talks planned for the autumn. These are to promote the heritage of the church and to raise fund, all on Wednesdays at 7.30pm at St John’s. (There will be a charge for the talks.)Duke of Somerset 27th September: The History of the Seymour FamilyBob Mann 25th October: Unknown Stories of BridgetownTodd Gray 22nd November: The Art & History of Devon’s Ancient Churches
~ Carolyn Stilwell

Feedback from the NUF Project
I took the hugely generous donation of knitted children’s clothes to the Plymouth Red Cross last Friday, where they were warmly received by the Women’s group of asylum-seekers and refugees, who meet there on Friday mornings.
I was staggered myself by the quantity and quality of all this beautiful knitting.
Who are these knitters??
One of the volunteers who run the women’s group said photos of some of the children wearing some of these garments will follow!
But meanwhile, please convey my deep appreciation to the knitters on behalf of all the recipients. I think some will go to women and children already here, some kept to add to the Welcome boxes when children come, or the packs for Family Re-unions.~ Wendy Stayte

Comment from Liz Waterson:
The knitters are the Mothers’ Union from all over Devon and Totnes Knit and Natter, and the Totnes Bowls Group – who don’t play in the winter but knit instead!

Freedom Centre news
• click to enlarge

Drop In Newsletter Summer 2017• click to enlarge

Marketplace Ministries July figures
• click to enlarge

Thanks for helping!Sue and John Stabler have kindly taken over the St Mary’s gardening from Bill Mindang (centre). Warmest thanks are also due to Lylie Hardy, Sandra Nicholson, John Hawkins and Martha Fausset, who have recently joined the St Mary’s locking up team, and to Seb Brown and Emily who are helping clear the roof gutters.
• still plenty of other jobs waiting to be done – please see the notice in the porch

Flower arrangers at St Mary’sPlease remember tosign up for the summer rota.Thank you!

Time to tidy the churchThe next working party to tidy and spruce up St Mary’s Church will be on Saturday, 2nd September, from 10am to 12noon. There’s a lot going on at St Mary’s in September, so it needs to look good for all our visitors!

Totnes Team Afternoon House GroupRestarts on Tuesday 5th September at 2pm. We will meet at St John’s Church, Bridgetown. We will be studying Chapter 7 ‘Working Faithfully’, from the book, Living Faithfully by John Pritchard. Fi Eaton will facilitate the session
• any queries please ring Liz Waterson on 01803 849345

Currently on sale…Delicious jam, marmalade, chutney and other produce is now on sale at St Mary’s Church, Totnes – and will continue to be so for some weeks to come!
• jam jars and lids are not needed at the moment!

PARISH NEWSLETTER– the August 2017 issue is online

Parish News August 2017 – this month’s newsletter, compiled and designed by Julian Hall, features 20pages full of news, articles and information. Toreceive the extended, full colour version in your inbox each month, please email Julian Hall.
Many thanks to theadvertisers* in the latest edition!

This issue includes:

August: a time for going places…growing places? – by Reverend Jane Frost

It’s Just A Thought – by the Reverend Cliff Berdinner

Caring Town Information Exchange – open and happy to help

Pals at Prayer in Exmouth – an Exmouth prayer intiative proves popular with children

Find the ‘key log’ – another extract from UCB’s Word For Today booklet (available free in both churches), see also UCB’s website

News from Exeter Anglican Org – three short articles

Alive to God – The Ven Douglas Dettmer, Archdeacon of Totnes

The Forgotten Christians of Baghdad – Church leaders in Baghdad are really struggling to help with the practical needs of their congregations

To download in pdf format right-click HERE (ctrl+click Mac), or click on the thumbnail to read online.*remember you can advertise in the newsletter

DON’T FORGET…

Clergy days off
Thursdays (Reverend Julian) and Fridays (Reverends Debbie, Jane and Steve) – please respect this by not contacting them on those days!

Prayer
at St John’s Church, every Friday 5pm to 5.45pm
• all welcome

History at St John’s ChurchA series of events sharing memories of Bridgetown in general and the church in particular. Fuller details under Upcoming Events, above.

Pennies for Heaven
There is a collection box at the back of St John’s Church, Bridgetown, every Sunday for your pennies and two-pennies.
The box is titled ‘Pennies for Heaven’.

Churches in Totnes supporting the initiative of Plymouth Red Cross for welcoming asylum-seekersJackie Fern and Wendy Stayte, on behalf of Totnes Quakers, are asking if other churches in Totnes would be willing to join with us for making ‘Welcome Packs’ for asylum-seekers when they arrive in Plymouth.
This is part of a ‘Welcome’ scheme that has been run by the Plymouth Red Cross for many years, and the scheme involves welcoming new arrivals when they come to Plymouth, helping them find their accommodation and generally find their feet during their first month in Plymouth, befriending them and giving them practical help.
All of this is done by the volunteers of the Welcome Project.The part which Red Cross is now looking to Totnes to see if we can help, is the making of the Welcome Packs, which consist of shoe boxes containing toiletries and a few other useful items to have on arrival.
About 300 new asylum-seekers arrive in Plymouth per year, which means about 6 boxes per week. If a few other churches would join the Quakers in this practical initiative that would be very welcome.We would make the collection point for the filled boxes at the Quaker meeting house (in Ticklemore Street Totnes), and would take responsibility for taking them over to Plymouth.
• more about British Red Cross support for refugees here

Weddings
You can download an invoice (Word docx file), updated May 2017 with new BACS information, for the core costs (Service, Marriage Certificate, Calling of Banns, optional Banns Certificate and heating if applicable) of a Wedding Service provided by the Totnes Team Ministry.• full detailsHERE
• if anyone would like to send us photos from their wedding service, we’d love to have some to post on the website

Rough sleepers around Totnes
We have been advised to call the Police or PCSOs on 101 to report on any rough sleepers in the area, or if we have any concerns about anti- social behaviour.
Please note the above number!

Freedom Centre websiteFor the most up to date news re the Marketplace Food Bank and The Drop In, visit the Freedom Centre Totneswebsite. This really replaces the Totnes Mobile Food Bank who are now mainly working with CAP clients. Food donations for The Totnes Mobile Food Bank can be made at Morrisons who have a brown Wheelie Collection bin for them by the Post Box at the exit.
• Marketplace Food Bank is a walk in food bank and they are working with statutory agencies to help those referred. This is also an Emergency Food Bank.

Parish Giving SchemeThere are various people using the Parish Giving Scheme who would be more than happy to answer any queries and help with the paperwork if necessary.
• please contact Julian Hall on 01803 867537 about this in the first instance

Help & Advice
The Need Help poster has recently been updated (March 2017).
• click here to download a printable A4 version

Coffee at St Mary’s Church, TotnesServers needed! It seems that quite a few people like drinking coffee after the service, but not many like serving it… Please contact one of the team if you’d like to help – otherwise it’s something that will disappear, which would be a shame!

Food Bank ItemsPlease check the sell by dates on food bank items.
I have to go through all the gifts and remove those that are out of date, empty the cans and then recycle – rather messy work. Any out of date food sent to the Food Bank which has to be disposed of by them has to be paid for. Also, very sadly, we are unable to give homemade gifts as there is provenance or dating. This is not problem at our fairs or coffee mornings, because purchaser and seller deal directly with one another. Any gifts, if you are unable to leave them in St Mary’s Church, may be left at any time in my porch. I am also collecting duvets and blankets and clothes for Mark, who will be opening the Drop In as a night shelter this winter.
• further information: Liz Waterson 01803 84934 32 Copland Meadows TQ9 6ER
• remember, we would love to receive more toiletries and household cleaning products!
• information about Food Bank opening times is here

Food Bank collectionsYou can bring your food bank donations – especially toiletries and cleaning products please – to any Sunday service at St Mary’s Church.
No need anymore to wait for the first Sunday of the month. Many thanks to everyone who donates – your help is greatly appreciated.
• you can now also take your food bank donations to Morrisons in Totnes – there is a collection bin by the toilets
• please check all sell-by dates (see above)!
• further information from Liz Waterson on 01803 84934
• more about Totnes Food Bankhere

Totnes CaringWe are always desperate for more volunteer drivers and I was wondering if any of your wonderful parishioners would be interested. If you have a little time to spare and are interested in becoming a volunteer car driver for Totnes Caring, please contact Sue Alford or Jacquie Mills on 01803 865684 or email us.
Thanking you in advance!
• download a printable poster

Totnes Church Services
Below is a handy at-a-glance summary of the various regular services in Totnes.•click here to download a printable version
• the latest version of this list is also permanently available on our Services page

The Cross in Your PocketSeveral of our ladies have been embroidering pocket crosses – they are free and can be found in St George’s Chapel.
They have been extremely popular and we have received many thanks for them. If you would like to help make some more, please contact Jean Marr on: 01803 847839• the beautiful cross pictured left (click to enlarge) was made by one of the stewards at St Mary’s Church, Totnes

Table TalkEvery third Thursday of the month at The Seven Stars, between 10am and 12noon. Meet at the large table at the back, behind the bar, for coffee, etc.
• contact Anne Binns for more information on 01803 840146

Sunday LunchesWould you like to have a roast lunch at the Albert Inn, Bridgetown, on the first Sunday of the month, with members of St John’s and St Mary’s churches?
• to book, please ring Liz Balkwill 01803 863355 or Anne Binns on 01803 840146by the previous Thursday

Meditation GroupThe Meditation Group meets at St John’s Church, Bridgetown, on the 2nd Friday of each month, from 7.30pm to 9pm.
• everyone is welcome to attend this informal group
• enquiries to Tricia Stokes on 01803 762158

For further information on any of the above Community News items, please contact Liz Waterson on 01803 849345, or email Liz

A ROUND-UP this time, of reports and photographs from recent events, projects and plans, including some new pages to take note of…• Windows of Opportunitytakes a look at plans and proposals for St John’s Church, Bridgetown, and includes an introductory video by Reverend Steve Jones. Find the new page under Projects.• Caring Town Information Exchange is based in the Mansion on Fore Street in Totnes, and is a signposting service for local people around health, care and wellbeing needs. Their new page is under Community.
• And in case you missed the announcement first time around, Friends of St Mary’s now have a menu all of their own, with details of the recently-launched Membership Scheme.
[Scroll down for tasters of all of the above.]St Mary’s Fabric Committee have been busy, too, making recommendations. See their checklist, below, for ideas to ‘reduce clutter’ within the church.
Forward dates for the Tuesday Afternoon and Evening House Groups, and likewise for the Crosspark Book Club, are further down this post, under Community News.
Three special services are coming up, in Dartington, Totnes and Cornworthy.Entertainments-wise, you’ll have to decide between two evening events on Saturday 15th July – one at St John’s, the other at St Mary’s. Or if you feel like some coffee and conversation, there are now three choices each week – History at St John’s continues on Saturdays; there’s a newly-launched Community Café on Wednesdays (also at St John’s) – and there are the ongoing Tuesday Specials at St Mary’s, which are proving especially popular with those who’ve been enjoying sitting outside in the recent sunshine. Plus Mary Harris is having a Garden Party on Sunday 30th July, with a Bring & Buy stall, cream teas and other goodies – in aid of St John’s windows and refurbishment fund.PS If you haven’t yet gotten hold of the JulyParish Newsletter, there’s a contents list below and a link to download the extended, colour version. Note that voluntary annual subscriptions for the Parish Newsletter are now due – please contact Julian Hall for a donations envelope, or see him at St Mary‘s on Sundays.

SPECIAL SERVICES in Dartington, Totnes & Cornworthy

Sunday 9th July at 6pmDartington HallWays with Words
CELEBRATORY SERVICEWe are delighted to welcome John Bell from the Iona Community to be the speaker at this special service. John Bell is well-known hymn writer, author, speaker and resource worker and he will be joined by poet, priest, photographer and artist, Ian Adams, for this celebratory service taking place in the Ways with Words Literary Festival. Music will be provided by our own Ashprington Community Choir, directed by Liz Chandler together with Divertimento and Diocesan Consultant for Liturgy and Music, Andrew Maries. The service will be led by Reverend Jane Frost, Totnes Team Curate.
• tickets are free and available on the door – so do get there early!
• download a printable A4 poster

Sunday16th July at 6.30pm
St Mary’s Church, TotnesCHORAL EVENSONGprogrammeResponses: Smith (with ‘Stone’ Lord’s Prayer)Hymn 577:Stand up and bless the LordPsalm 60Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis: Aston in FAnthem:Give unto the Lord – ElgarAnthem after the prayers:Lord I trust thee – HandelHymn 558:Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of creation• musical director Jan Dietz
• officiant The Rector• read about St Mary’s Choir

Sunday 30th July at 10.30am
St Peter‘s Church, CornworthyTEAM SERVICE
• no other services on that day – except at 8am in Totnes

UPCOMING EVENTS

Saturdays ongoing from 3pm to 5pm
St John’s Church, BridgetownHISTORY AT ST JOHN’SA series of events, when older residents of Bridgetown will come and share their memories of Bridgetown generally and the church in particular, while enjoying tea and cake. Newer and younger residents may like to come along to hear about life in Bridgetown in the past.
• everyone is welcome
• no tickets are needed, but there will be a bowl for donations

Tuesdays 11th, 18th & 25th July from 10.30am to 1pm’ish
St Mary’s Church, TotnesTUESDAY SPECIAL!!!!
Toasted teacake, coffee, warm welcome – every Tuesday until September. Tables and chairs outside in the sunshine (inside seating also available). In support of the Friends of St Mary’s
• more information from Sandra Nicholson on 01626 330049

Wednesdays 12th, 19th & 26th July from 10am to 1pm
St John’s Church, BridgetownCOMMUNITY CAFÉ
A place of friendship and fellowship to the community.
The café will run on a pay what you feel basis.

Saturday 15th July from 3.30pm to 5.30pmAnstey House, Jubilee Road, Totnes TQ9 5BHMESSY CHURCH BARBEQUEComing from the top of Jubilee Road, Anstey House is on your left with big wooden gates. There will be balloons outside.
Please park your car on Jubilee Road. If it is raining, the barbeque will be held at St John’s Church – if the weather looks doubtful, the decision about the venue will be made by midday, so please ring Diana Lusher (number below) if you need confirmation.
• RSVP by email / phone 01803 840702 (we need to know the numbers for catering)• more about Messy Churchhere

Saturday 15th July from 10am to 11.30am
St John’s Church, BridgetownEXPLORING OUR FAITHFinal session:Exploring ForgivenessEveryone is welcome – you don’t need to have been to any other sessions to attend this one.
• for more details, talk to any of the clergy team

NEW: Saturday 29th July at 11am
St Mary’s Church, TotnesCoffee ConcertCHARITY CONCERT
for Lymphoma AssociationLudivico Einaudi, played by Lina Okihara, supported by Totnes School of Piano.
• entry £5 – all money raised will be donated to the Lymphoma Association
• coffee from 10.30am

NEW: Sunday 30th July from 2.30pm to 5pm4 Swallowfields, Riverside, Totnes
Mary Harris is having aGARDEN PARTY
Come and enjoy her garden, meet friends and chat. You can have cream tea or tea and cakes for £5 or try the Bring & Buy stall.
• in aid of St John’s windows and refurbishment fund

PHOTOGRAPHS – click the images to enlarge them

Deanery Confirmation 18th June 2017
with the Bishop of Plymouth, the Rt Reverend Nicholas McKinnelThose Confirmed on this day were Amanda, Scarlet and Greg from St Mary’s, Totnes and Claire and Charlotte from South Brent.

On Track EducationStudents from On Track Education selling ‘healthy breakfasts’ outside St Mary’s Church in late May, in aid of Unicef‘s ‘Day for Change 2017’, which aims to help malnourished children grow healthy and strong. Every £1 raised is matched by The Power of Nutrition, a charitable foundation. The students made and sold their own ‘energy orbs’, smoothies and breakfast muffins, and were extremely grateful to St Mary’s for allowing them to use the space outside the church.

The Story of St. John’sSt. John’s has an interesting story to tell. Originally part of the parish of Berry Pomeroy, it was built in 1832 for the rapidly growing suburb of Bridgetown by the Duke of Somerset. Its first minister was the radical preacher, Revd. James Shore. Under his leadership, St. John’s left the Church of England for a about thirty years to become the first congregation of the breakaway Free Church of England. St. John’s is now part of the parish of Totnes with Bridgetown in the Totnes Team.
Since then Bridgetown has continued to grow. A lot of new homes were built in the post-war period, and major development continues today. St. John’s has provided pastoral care for many generations and has a long track record of community engagement and provision.Today it has become an important centre of the community and its environs, providing much more than just worship facilities. However, the social need continues to escalate and investment is needed to sustain further growth. Bridgetown has a significant loneliness and deprivation problem, and we are looking to expand our community provision – in particular at the present time in response to the national Campaign to End Loneliness. St. John’s is the only place of worship and the only major community centre on its side of the river.The church building is now in need of a major facelift to make it ﬁt for its present-day and future purpose. After a serious ﬁre in 1976 the vision of the then vicar, the Revd. Roy Harris, was for St. John’s to become a conference and community centre, as well as a worship centre. The church was reconstructed as a multi-purpose building, but unfortunately much of the work has not stood the test of time.We are now developing our Seven-year Strategy for the whole building which embodies our vision for progressive development of the interior, and an enhanced frontage and setting of the Grade II listed building and the Totnes conservation area. We are deeply committed to supporting the use of the building in many rich and diverse ways, and the well-being of those who enjoy the welcome and hospitality we naturally want to give each day…
• read the rest of this article on our new page (under the Projects menu)

ST MARY’S FABRIC COMMITTEE – suggestions & recommendations

Following meetings of the Fabric Committee and the PCC, a tour of the church was undertaken to see how the building could be less cluttered. This has resulted in a number of suggestions / recommendations to be put to both committees for approval.These are:1) To build in a large cupboard projecting from the back central wall (in the missing banner area). This would need a faculty to take out two pews from that area but would be large enough to house crockery for social events, flower arrangers‘ equipment and boxes of glasses.2) To remove the information leaflets from the porch seating – the Tourist Information function is to be taken over by the Guildhall.
3) To relocate the prayer etc. notices on the altar rail in St George’s Chapel to two smaller plastic display stands.3) To purchase modern folding chairs for the choir – number as required – and relocate them to the space beside what is no the flower cupboard in the choir vestry. The old chairs to be returned to the church hall.4) To cover the new platform unit with a suitable material cover (perhaps matching the piano cover).5) To have only one display area (by the South Door, as now) for the Friends of St Mary’s literature.6) To have one member of the congregation to have oversight of church tidiness and to be approached if items are misplaced.
• none of the above is set in stone so if you have comments / suggestions, please see Peter Rogers or email him

CARING TOWN INFORMATION EXCHANGE – now open and happy to help

Caring Town Information ExchangeSo I am a Caring Town Connector! What does that mean? I am part of the new Caring Town Information Exchange based in the Mansion on Fore Street in Totnes, a signposting service for local people around health, care and wellbeing needs.
Why are we needed? (That seems to be a common question.)Who comes to see you? (Another question – but don’t worry – it is all confidential – no names or addresses or indeed anything personal about you is recorded.)A huge variety of people come in (it’s not boring – I could chat to people all day). Those without a roof over their head who are looking for somewhere to sleep or take a shower, people who are struggling to pay their bills, those looking for help in caring for elderly parents, or people who find they have some spare time, want to volunteer in some way and are wondering how to go about it. Or perhaps they have moved to the area and are simply looking for social activities where they will meet new people…
• read the rest of this article byVictoria Patch on our new page (under the Community menu)

FRIENDS OF ST MARY’S – membership scheme

DO YOU SOMETIMES WISH you could bottle a little of St Mary’s and take it home with you?
Well, you can – by joining the Friends of St Mary’s! The Membership subscription scheme was launched in early 2017.Membership benefits include:• Access to a stunning, growing collection of online images showing our historic church in all its splendour – not to mention close-up photos of many architectural highlights that you may have missed.• Members receive email listings of all forthcoming concerts and events, with reserved seating (on prior application) for all ticketed Friends of St Mary’s events.• Last but not least,you are helping to support a variety of very worthy projects to enhance and maintain St Mary’s Church.We’ve added several new pages, under the menu heading Friends of St Mary’s:About Friends of St Mary’sFriends of St Mary’s shopFriends of St Mary’s membershipFriends of St Mary’s – joinFriends of St Mary’s Members’ Galleries

COMMUNITY NEWSwith Liz Waterson

Gardeners neededFor many years, Kris and Bill Mindang have lovingly tended the rose bushes and flower beds in front of St Mary’s in Totnes High Street. They are now elderly and Bill is in poor health, so they are no longer able to continue. Volunteers are urgently needed to help maintain this beautiful little garden, right in the heart of Totnes. It is the first thing that thousands of visitors see when approaching the ancient church.
Even one hour per month, at whatever time is convenient, would be a great help.
• contact Julian Hall 01803 867537

Tuesday Afternoon House Group
Our final meeting before the Summer break is on July 18th – we will meet at 4, Riverside, Swallowfields (Mary Harris’ house, phone: 01803 865772). We will be studying Chapter 6 Being Healthy from the book Living Faithfully by John Pritchard. Please bring your books!
• further details, Liz Waterson on 01803 849345

Tuesday Evening House Group
The Tuesday Evening House Group is meeting to discuss the bookLiving Faithfully by John Pritchard.18th July – Being Healthy (this is the last house group before summer).
• all sessions are at 3 Sparrow Road except 6th June, which will be at 25 Kings Orchard
• contact: Carolyn Stilwell on 01803 863030

Crosspark Book Club– 2017forward date for your diaryMonday 7th AugustIsland Wife: Living on the Edge of the Wild by Judy Fairbairns
(venue tba, not at Crosspark)

On saleDelicious jam, marmalade, chutney and other produce is now on sale at St Mary’s Church, Totnes – and will continue to be so for some weeks to come!
• jam jars and lids are not needed at the moment!

PARISH NEWSLETTER– the July 2017 issue is online

Parish News July 2017 – this month’s newsletter, compiled and designed by Julian Hall, features 20pages full of news, articles and information. Toreceive the extended, full colour version in your inbox each month, please email Julian Hall.
Many thanks to theadvertisers* in the latest edition!

Voluntary annual subscriptions for the Parish Newsletter are now due. Please contact Julian Hall for a donations envelope, or see him at St Mary‘s on Sundays.

This issue includes:

Doing All Things Well – by Reverend Steve Jones

It’s Just A Thought – by the Reverend Cliff Berdinner

St Bridget’s Feast Day – by Joy Hanson

Serving The People Of Devon With Joy At St Mary’s – Julian Hall

Hidden Stairs And Wall Paintings Discovered – revelations at a church near Tiverton

Transforming Plymouth Together – a conference discussing social issues

To download in pdf format right-click HERE (ctrl+click Mac), or click on the thumbnail to read online.*remember you can advertise in the newsletter – rates updated November 2016

DON’T FORGET…

Clergy days off
Thursdays (Reverend Julian) and Fridays (Reverends Debbie, Jane and Steve) – please respect this by not contacting them on those days!

Prayer
at St John’s Church, every Friday 5pm to 5.45pm
• all welcome

History at St John’s ChurchA series of events sharing memories of Bridgetown in general and the church in particular. Fuller details under Upcoming Events, above.

Pennies for Heaven
There is a collection box at the back of St John’s Church, Bridgetown, every Sunday for your pennies and two-pennies.
The box is titled ‘Pennies for Heaven’.

Churches in Totnes supporting the initiative of Plymouth Red Cross for welcoming asylum-seekersJackie Fern and Wendy Stayte, on behalf of Totnes Quakers, are asking if other churches in Totnes would be willing to join with us for making ‘Welcome Packs’ for asylum-seekers when they arrive in Plymouth.
This is part of a ‘Welcome’ scheme that has been run by the Plymouth Red Cross for many years, and the scheme involves welcoming new arrivals when they come to Plymouth, helping them find their accommodation and generally find their feet during their first month in Plymouth, befriending them and giving them practical help.
All of this is done by the volunteers of the Welcome Project.The part which Red Cross is now looking to Totnes to see if we can help, is the making of the Welcome Packs, which consist of shoe boxes containing toiletries and a few other useful items to have on arrival.
About 300 new asylum-seekers arrive in Plymouth per year, which means about 6 boxes per week. If a few other churches would join the Quakers in this practical initiative that would be very welcome.We would make the collection point for the filled boxes at the Quaker meeting house (in Ticklemore Street Totnes), and would take responsibility for taking them over to Plymouth.
• more about British Red Cross support for refugees here

You can download an invoice (Word docx file), updated May 2017 with new BACS information, for the core costs (Service, Marriage Certificate, Calling of Banns, optional Banns Certificate and heating if applicable) of a Wedding Service provided by the Totnes Team Ministry.• full detailsHERE
• if anyone would like to send us photos from their wedding service, we’d love to have some to post on the website

Rough sleepers around Totnes
We have been advised to call the Police or PCSOs on 101 to report on any rough sleepers in the area, or if we have any concerns about anti- social behaviour.
Please note the above number!

Freedom Centre websiteFor the most up to date news re the Marketplace Food Bank and The Drop In, visit the Freedom Centre Totneswebsite. This really replaces the Totnes Mobile Food Bank who are now mainly working with CAP clients. Food donations for The Totnes Mobile Food Bank can be made at Morrisons who have a brown Wheelie Collection bin for them by the Post Box at the exit.
• Marketplace Food Bank is a walk in food bank and they are working with statutory agencies to help those referred. This is also an Emergency Food Bank.

Parish Giving SchemeThere are various people using the Parish Giving Scheme who would be more than happy to answer any queries and help with the paperwork if necessary.
• please contact Julian Hall on 01803 867537 about this in the first instance

Help & Advice
The Need Help poster has recently been updated (March 2017).
• click here to download a printable A4 version

Coffee at St Mary’s Church, TotnesServers needed! It seems that quite a few people like drinking coffee after the service, but not many like serving it… Please contact one of the team if you’d like to help – otherwise it’s something that will disappear, which would be a shame!

Food Bank ItemsPlease check the sell by dates on food bank items.
I have to go through all the gifts and remove those that are out of date, empty the cans and then recycle – rather messy work. Any out of date food sent to the Food Bank which has to be disposed of by them has to be paid for. Also, very sadly, we are unable to give homemade gifts as there is provenance or dating. This is not problem at our fairs or coffee mornings, because purchaser and seller deal directly with one another. Any gifts, if you are unable to leave them in St Mary’s Church, may be left at any time in my porch. I am also collecting duvets and blankets and clothes for Mark, who will be opening the Drop In as a night shelter this winter.
• further information: Liz Waterson 01803 84934 32 Copland Meadows TQ9 6ER
• remember, we would love to receive more toiletries and household cleaning products!
• information about Food Bank opening times is here

Food Bank collectionsYou can bring your food bank donations – especially toiletries and cleaning products please – to any Sunday service at St Mary’s Church.
No need anymore to wait for the first Sunday of the month. Many thanks to everyone who donates – your help is greatly appreciated.
• you can now also take your food bank donations to Morrisons in Totnes – there is a collection bin by the toilets
• please check all sell-by dates (see above)!
• further information from Liz Waterson on 01803 84934
• more about Totnes Food Bankhere

Totnes CaringWe are always desperate for more volunteer drivers and I was wondering if any of your wonderful parishioners would be interested. If you have a little time to spare and are interested in becoming a volunteer car driver for Totnes Caring, please contact Sue Alford or Jacquie Mills on 01803 865684 or email us.
Thanking you in advance!
• download a printable poster

Totnes Church Services
Below is a handy at-a-glance summary of the various regular services in Totnes.•click here to download a printable version
• the latest version of this list is also permanently available on our Services page

The Cross in Your PocketSeveral of our ladies have been embroidering pocket crosses – they are free and can be found in St George’s Chapel.
They have been extremely popular and we have received many thanks for them. If you would like to help make some more, please contact Jean Marr on: 01803 847839• the beautiful cross pictured left (click to enlarge) was made by one of the stewards at St Mary’s Church, Totnes

Table TalkEvery third Thursday of the month at The Seven Stars, between 10am and 12noon. Meet at the large table at the back, behind the bar, for coffee, etc.
• contact Anne Binns for more information on 01803 840146

Sunday LunchesWould you like to have a roast lunch at the Albert Inn, Bridgetown, on the first Sunday of the month, with members of St John’s and St Mary’s churches?
• to book, please ring Liz Balkwill 01803 863355 or Anne Binns on 01803 840146by the previous Thursday

Meditation GroupThe Meditation Group meets at St John’s Church, Bridgetown, on the 2nd Friday of each month, from 7.30pm to 9pm.
• everyone is welcome to attend this informal group
• enquiries to Tricia Stokes on 01803 762158

For further information on any of the above Community News items, please contact Liz Waterson on 01803 849345, or email Liz

A VERY BIG UPDATE this time, full of new services, new events and masses of Community News.
Prayer is one of the big themes in this bulletin – read about the Totnes Team Ministry‘s call to prayer as part of this year’s Thy Kingdom Come week. The week itself then concludes with the Beacon Prayer Event at Exeter Cathedral.
About a week later, Messy Church also heads to Exeter Cathedral for a Messy Fiesta on Saturday 10th June. If you’re spending that day in Totnes, though, head down to Vire Island for the Totnes Christian Festival.
There’s plenty of singing going on throughout June – Choral Evensong, of course, plus Ogwell Village Choir, the Collati Singers, and the Chapel Choir of Robinson College.
Sitting outside weather is here at last, and even if it isn’t sunny or dry, if you’re near St Mary’s Church on any Tuesday until September, pop in for a Tuesday Special and enjoy refreshments and good company, and help fund Friends of St Mary’s at the same time.
Speaking of which, the recently-launched Friends of St Mary’s Membership Scheme is going well, thanks to a lot of hard work by Julian Hall and others, and as you may have noticed, we’ve added a new section to this website – including details of membership benefits and how to join.
[Making top-row space available for the new section meant moving some things around…Contacts are now under the About us menu…and the public Galleries are now under the Community heading.]
There’s news about the Vision Project, and the new Freedom Centre website. The Drop In and Totnes Street Pastors both have their latest newsletters online.
A new series of events is being launched in July, focussing on the history of Bridgetown generally, and especially on St John’s Church.
Forward dates for the Tuesday Afternoon and Evening House Groups, and likewise for the Crosspark Book Club, are further down, under the Community News section.
If by chance you haven’t yet gotten hold of the May Parish Newsletter, there’s a contents list below along with a link to download the extended, colour version.
Many thanks to everyone who has sent us information and images.• PSIn our next bulletin, we’ll be compiling feedback from recent events and fundriasers. So if you’ve any reports, reviews or photos, please send them in!

SPECIAL SERVICESin Exeter & Totnes

NEW: Sunday 4th June (Day of Pentecost) at 6.30pmExeter CathedralBEACON PRAYER EVENT
As a climax to the Thy Kingdom Come wave of prayer, the Cathedral invites us to take our prayer boxes to a special celebration service. All welcome.

Thursday 25th May from 10am to 12noon
St Mary’s Church, TotnesUnicef DAY for CHANGEOn Track Education Services Ltd will mark unicef Day for Change with a Sale of Healthy Breakfast Goodies including home-made energy orbs, smoothies and breakfast muffins.

NEW: Tuesday 30th May from 10.30am to 1pm’ish
St Mary’s Church, TotnesTUESDAY SPECIAL!!!!
Toasted teacake, coffee, warm welcome – every Tuesday until September. Tables and chairs outside in the sunshine (inside seating also available). In support of the Friends of St Mary’s
• more information from Sandra Nicholson
on 01626 330049

NEW: Wednesday 31st May at 6pmCivic Hall, TotnesTotnes Town Council
ANNUAL TOWN MEETING
As some of you know we are going to commence a Community Budgeting project this year to engage with residents and business owners, ahead of setting the 18/19 precept.This idea will take place at our Annual Town Meeting.
We are laying on free refreshments and making the meeting more interactive. We really hope that we can get great numbers coming to start expressing their views and priorities. With many thanks,Catherine

Saturday 10th June
from 10.30am to 1.30pmExeter CathedralMESSY CHURCH FIESTAAll the fun of Messy Church with more people and more space…From the Exeter Cathedral website: “Messy Church is a way-of-being church for families involving fun. This event will bring all the Messy Churches of Devon together to experience a little of ‘worldwide church’ and celebrate all that God is doing. It’s also a great way to bond with your Messy Families by going somewhere together as Messy Church.” If anyone would like more information please ring Diana Lusher on 01803 840702 or 07710 222955. We then start again after the holidays on September 16th.• more about Messy Churchhere
• see some photos of Messy Church

NEW: Saturday 10th June from 12noon to 8pmVire Island, TotnesTOTNES CHRISTIAN FESTIVAL 2017A Celebration of Christian Life and Culture
You are invited to come along to this free event as a member of a local church, and bring as many people as you can!
• Speaker (pictured right): Bishop Nick McKinnel

NEW: Saturday June 17th at 7.30pm
St John’s Church, BridgetownTHE COLLATI SINGERSConducted by Trefor Farrow, The Collati Singers will sing Delius’ wordless Two Songs to be Sung of a Summer Night on the Water. The concert will also include unaccompanied arrangements of folk songs made for the King’s Singers and music by Ravel, Dowland and Whitacre.
• admission is free (retiring donations invited for the church maintenance fund)
• for further information see their website• see also their facebook page
• download a printable A4 poster

NEW: Tuesday 27th June at 7.30pm
St Mary’s Church, TotnesConcert by the CHAPELCHOIR of ROBINSON COLLEGE, Cambridge
A mixed-voice choir singing services twice a week in the wonderful setting of Robinson College’s Chapel. They also sing services on feast days and special occasions throughout the academic year. The Choir tours every year both abroad and in the UK. Previous tours have included Paris, Innsbruck and Southern Spain. ​
• retiring collection
• website
• further details tba

NEW: Saturday 1st July (launch day) from 3pm to 5pm
St John’s Church, BridgetownHISTORY AT ST JOHN’SA series of events, starting with a Tea Party, when older residents of Bridgetown will come and share their memories of Bridgetowngenerally and the church in particular, while enjoying tea and cake. Newer and younger residents may like to come along to hear about life in Bridgetown in the past.
• everyone is welcome
• no tickets are needed, but there will be a bowl for donations

THY KINGDOM COME – Totnes Team Ministry Call to Prayer

THE ARCHBISHOPS of Canterbury and York have written to every serving parish priest in the Church of England expressing their longing “to see a great wave of prayer across our land, throughout the Church of England and many other Churches” from 25th May to 4th June culminating in praying for the renewal of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.
To that end we have allocated each parish within the Totnes Team, a particular day in that week in which they can invite parishioners topray for half an hour between 8am & 8pm. A representative from each church will be given a rota for participants to sign up to, to pray for 30 minutes. There will be some information in each church to aid your prayers.Various pdf and docx files are available via the links below, to help organise the week and to help support those who are participating. Please click the links or images to download the files:Prayer Booklet (pdf)Lord’s Prayer Booklet (pdf)Let Your Light Shine (docx)Prayer Rota (docx)• you can also download a printable copy of the poster

PROJECTS – in and around St Mary’s Church, Totnes

WE HAVE EMBARKED ON a scheme to restore the magnificent fabric of St Mary’s Church, and to reorder the interior of the building. At the same time, Totnes Trust has embarked on a project with us to make the area around the Church into one of an attractive and unique heritage areas.The two organisations have come together to work in partnership on this project along with the Town Council.The partnership believe that these projects can only succeed if they involve the community through extensive public consultation, and so will be running two stages of consultation at St Mary’s Church in June.
The first stage will take place on June 8th, 9th and 10th, and June 15th, 16th and 17th. The consultation will consist of a series of display boards in the church showing the rich history of the church and its surroundings, inform the public about the current situation and need, and then invite them to contribute their thoughts and ideas.The times of the consultation are:8th June 12pm – 7pm9th, 10th, 15th, 16th & 17th June10am – 4pm
We would be very grateful if you would consider volunteering to be a host. We do not expect you to be there for each session or a full session but your time would be appreciated however much you can spare. If you can or for more info, email Frances Northrop or telephone 0770 6466841• see also our Vision Project section

FRIENDS OF ST MARY’S – membership scheme

DO YOU WISH you could bottle a bit of St Mary’s and take it home with you?
Well, you can – by joining the Friends of St Mary’s! The Membership subscription scheme was launched in early 2017. Membership benefits include:• Access to a stunning, growing collection of online images showing our historic church in all its splendour – not to mention close-up photos of many architectural highlights that you may have missed.Below are a few thumbnails of images from the new galleries, more to come soon. Members can view these images at high resolution (3000 x 4000px) suitable for printing or for studying in fine detail.

Until Saturday 15th JulySt John’s Church, BridgetownEXPLORING OUR FAITHMaybe you’re new or have been coming to church for years but are unsure about some of the things we do? Or you’re wondering about how it all relates to our Christian faith? Members of the Clergy and Reader ministry team will be leading a series of six sessions on selected Saturday mornings looking at the following topics:Exploring the Bible Why do we have the Bible? Where did it come from? Personal Bible reading.Exploring Ceremonies The importance and meanings of baptism, confirmation, marriage, funerals & ordination.Exploring the Eucharist What’s Holy Communion all about?Exploring Prayer What is prayer & why do we pray? Praying alone, praying together. Different ways into prayer.Exploring the Church (Saturday 17th June)
What is the point of church? Buildings & robes. Mission & maintenance. Choirs & congregations.Exploring Forgiveness
The relevance of confession, absolution, wholeness & reconciliation.
• all sessions will take place at St John’s, Bridgetown
• click herefor more details and to book your place

WEDDINGS – updated invoice form to download

You can download an invoice (Word docx file), updated May 2017 with new BACS information, for the core costs (Service, Marriage Certificate, Calling of Banns, optional Banns Certificate and heating if applicable) of a Wedding Service provided by the Totnes Team Ministry.• full detailsHERE
• if anyone would like to send us photos from their wedding service, we’d love to have some to post on the website

COMMUNITY NEWSwith Liz Waterson

Totnes Street Pastors
The Spring 2017 Newsletter is now available to read online or download as a pdf.“Every step leaves a footprint – don’t get discouraged if it appears to be a quiet night! It’s not what we’re against but what we are for. Let’s get excited about Jesus and allow Him to shine through all that we do. He welcomed everyone. He was attractive to everyone. His message is invitational – people may choose whether or not to accept it.”
~ Reverend Les Isaac, CEO of Ascension Trust

History at St John’s ChurchA series of events starting with a Tea Party on July 1st from 3pm to 5pm, sharing memories of Bridgetown in general and the church in particular.
Fuller details under Upcoming Events, above.

Freedom Centre websiteFor the most up to date news re the Marketplace Food Bank and The Drop In, visit the Freedom Centre Totneswebsite. This really replaces the Totnes Mobile Food Bank who are now mainly working with CAP clients. Food donations for The Totnes Mobile Food Bank can be made at Morrisons who have a brown Wheelie Collection bin for them by the Post Box at the exit.
• Marketplace Food Bank is a walk in food bank and they are working with statutory agencies to help those referred. This is also an Emergency Food Bank.

Totnes Drop-In Newsletter
The Spring 2017 Newsletter is now available to read online or download as a pdf. Included is the following information…Revival Life Ministries “Drop In” to become Marketplace Drop InRevival Life Ministries is in the process of closing as a registered charity. The work of the Drop In with the homeless in Totnes is being transferred into Marketplace Ministries Ltd and will continue to help homeless people in our community. Mark Hatch, who has been the shining light of the Drop In Centre and homeless provision in Totnes for over 20, years will continue as Centre Manager of Marketplace Drop In.
From Monday 3rd April, both the name and the location of the Drop In have changed. The Drop In is now called Marketplace Drop In. The location will change as the Drop In moves across the road to 2a Burke Road. The Bank Account details for the Drop In will remain unchanged.The temporary move over the road is to facilitate the demolition of the current premises and the rebuild which South Hams District Council are undertaking. At the end of that process, Marketplace Drop In will return to a brand new purpose built provision for the homeless.To the service user, there will be no interruption of service during this transition. It will however streamline the provision by utilizing the administrative infrastructure that already exists within Marketplace Ministries Ltd. This will allow Mark to do what he loves best, to focus his time and energy on those who need him.

Churches in Totnes supporting the initiative of Plymouth Red Cross for welcoming asylum-seekersJackie Fern and Wendy Stayte, on behalf of Totnes Quakers, are asking if other churches in Totnes would be willing to join with us for making ‘Welcome Packs’ for asylum-seekers when they arrive in Plymouth.
This is part of a ‘Welcome’ scheme that has been run by the Plymouth Red Cross for many years, and the scheme involves welcoming new arrivals when they come to Plymouth, helping them find their accommodation and generally find their feet during their first month in Plymouth, befriending them and giving them practical help.
All of this is done by the volunteers of the Welcome Project.The part which Red Cross is now looking to Totnes to see if we can help, is the making of the Welcome Packs, which consist of shoe boxes containing toiletries and a few other useful items to have on arrival.
About 300 new asylum-seekers arrive in Plymouth per year, which means about 6 boxes per week. If a few other churches would join the Quakers in this practical initiative that would be very welcome.We would make the collection point for the filled boxes at the Quaker meeting house (in Ticklemore Street Totnes), and would take responsibility for taking them over to Plymouth.
• more about British Red Cross support for refugees here

Tuesday Afternoon House Group
Our new study book is Living Faithfully by John Pritchard.
• on Tuesday June 6th we will meet at 4, Riverside, Swallowfields (Mary Harris’ house, phone: 01803 865772). Please bring your books – we shall be looking at Chapter 3 together Handling Money. Tony Gregg will be leading the session
• further details, Liz Waterson on 01803 849345

Tuesday Evening House Group
The Tuesday Evening House Group is currently meeting to discuss the bookLiving Faithfully by John Pritchard.
6th June – Handling Money
20th June – Handling Our Sexuality
4th July – Facing Temptation
18th July – Being Healthy (this is the last house group before summer).
• all sessions are at 3 Sparrow Road except 6th June, which will be at 25 Kings Orchard
• contact: Carolyn Stilwell on 01803 863030

Crosspark Book Club– 2017forward dates for your diaryMonday 5th JuneNotes from an Exhibition by Patrick Gale
Venue: Crosspark, facilitated by Debbie ParsonsMonday 7th AugustIsland Wife: Living on the Edge of the Wild by Judy Fairbairns
(venue tba, not at Crosspark)

On saleDelicious jam, marmalade, chutney and other produce is now on sale at St Mary’s Church, Totnes – and will continue to be so for some weeks to come!
• jam jars and lids are not needed at the moment!

PARISH NEWSLETTER– the May 2017 issue is online

Parish News May 2017 – this month’s newsletter, compiled and designed by Julian Hall, features 20pages full of news, articles and information. Toreceive the extended, full colour version in your inbox each month, please email Julian Hall.
Many thanks to theadvertisers* in the latest edition!

Experience Resurrection Life By Giving – Bishop Robert Atwell of Exeter

It’s Just Not Cricket – poem by Nigel Beeton

The Way I See It – Canon David Winter

You Can Change – another extract from UCB’s Word For Today booklet (available free in both churches), see also UCB’s website

To download in pdf format right-click HERE (ctrl+click Mac), or click on the thumbnail to read online.*remember you can advertise in the newsletter – rates updated November 2016

REMINDERS…

Clergy days off
Thursdays (Reverend Julian) and Fridays (Reverends Debbie, Jane and Steve) – please respect this by not contacting them on those days!

Parish Giving SchemeThere are various people using the Parish Giving Scheme who would be more than happy to answer any queries and help with the paperwork if necessary.
• please contact Julian Hall on 01803 867537 about this in the first instance

Help & Advice
The Need Help poster has recently been updated (March 2017).
• click here to download a printable A4 version

Coffee at St Mary’s Church, TotnesServers needed! It seems that quite a few people like drinking coffee after the service, but not many like serving it… Please contact one of the team if you’d like to help – otherwise it’s something that will disappear, which would be a shame!

Food Bank ItemsPlease check the sell by dates on food bank items.
I have to go through all the gifts and remove those that are out of date, empty the cans and then recycle – rather messy work. Any out of date food sent to the Food Bank which has to be disposed of by them has to be paid for. Also, very sadly, we are unable to give homemade gifts as there is provenance or dating. This is not problem at our fairs or coffee mornings, because purchaser and seller deal directly with one another. Any gifts, if you are unable to leave them in St Mary’s Church, may be left at any time in my porch. I am also collecting duvets and blankets and clothes for Mark, who will be opening the Drop In as a night shelter this winter.
• further information: Liz Waterson 01803 84934 32 Copland Meadows TQ9 6ER
• remember, we would love to receive more toiletries and household cleaning products!
• information about Food Bank opening times is here

Food Bank collectionsYou can bring your food bank donations – especially toiletries and cleaning products please – to any Sunday service at St Mary’s Church.
No need anymore to wait for the first Sunday of the month. Many thanks to everyone who donates – your help is greatly appreciated.
• you can now also take your food bank donations to Morrisons in Totnes – there is a collection bin by the toilets
• please check all sell-by dates (see above)!
• further information from Liz Waterson on 01803 84934
• more about Totnes Food Bankhere

Totnes CaringWe are always desperate for more volunteer drivers and I was wondering if any of your wonderful parishioners would be interested. If you have a little time to spare and are interested in becoming a volunteer car driver for Totnes Caring, please contact Sue Alford or Jacquie Mills on 01803 865684 or email us.
Thanking you in advance!
• download a printable poster

Totnes Church Services
Below is a handy at-a-glance summary of the various regular services in Totnes.•click here to download a printable version
• the latest version of this list is also permanently available on our Services page

The Cross in Your PocketSeveral of our ladies have been embroidering pocket crosses – they are free and can be found in St George’s Chapel.
They have been extremely popular and we have received many thanks for them. If you would like to help make some more, please contact Jean Marr on: 01803 847839• the beautiful cross pictured left (click to enlarge) was made by one of the stewards at St Mary’s Church, Totnes

Prayer
at St John’s Church, every Friday 5pm to 5.45pm
• all welcome

Table TalkEvery third Thursday of the month at The Seven Stars, between 10am and 12noon. Meet at the large table at the back, behind the bar, for coffee, etc.
• contact Anne Binns for more information on 01803 840146

Sunday LunchesWould you like to have a roast lunch at the Albert Inn, Bridgetown, on the first Sunday of the month, with members of St John’s and St Mary’s churches?
• to book, please ring Liz Balkwill 01803 863355 or Anne Binns on 01803 840146by the previous Thursday

Meditation GroupThe Meditation Group meets at St John’s Church, Bridgetown, on the 2nd Friday of each month, from 7.30pm to 9pm.
• everyone is welcome to attend this informal group
• enquiries to Tricia Stokes on 01803 762158

Pennies for Heaven
There is a collection box at the back of St John’s Church, Bridgetown, every Sunday for your pennies and two-pennies.
The box is titled ‘Pennies for Heaven’.

For further information on any of the above Community News items, please contact Liz Waterson on 01803 849345, or email Liz